A new study published in the journal Thorax suggests that ultra-processed foods (UPFs) such as lunch meats, ready meals, fizzy drinks, and snacks may increase the risk of lung cancer.
Researchers studied more than 101,000 participants with an average age of 62, noting that UPFs now comprise up to half of the average diet and have been previously linked to diabetes, heart disease, and shorter life expectancy.
The study identified 1,706 lung cancer cases, the majority being non-small cell variants, with the rest classified as small cell, more aggressive forms. Researchers focused on UPFs including ice cream, frozen yoghurt, baked goods, instant noodles, shop-bought soups and sauces, margarine, and restaurant-prepared fast foods.
Lunch meats accounted for 11% of UPF intake, diet or caffeinated soft drinks slightly over 7%, and decaffeinated drinks nearly 7%.
Nutritionists emphasise that the study is observational and does not account for other factors, such as smoking habits. Rob Hobson advised small dietary improvements rather than demonising specific foods, noting that UPFs are cheap, readily available, and heavily marketed.
Researchers say limiting UPF consumption could help reduce risks of obesity, cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, cancer, and mortality.