The Link Between Red Meat and Cancer: What You Need to Know

In recent years, there's been growing interest in the health implications of red meat consumption and its link to an increased risk of various cancers. A current study provides further evidence supporting past findings: red meat, including beef and lamb, may pose a significant risk factor when consumed in large amounts.

Red meat, defined as meat derived from mammals, is rich in iron in the form of Heme , which is efficiently absorbed by the body but may trigger oxidative reactions damaging cells, particularly in intestinal tissues. Processing methods such as salting, smoking, and the addition of preservatives create carcinogenic compounds like nitrates and nitrites, which can increase cancer risks, especially colorectal cancer.

Cooking meat at high temperatures, such as grilling, frying, or roasting, produces carcinogenic substances that harm cells. These compounds form when proteins in meat are excessively heated.

Some researchers emphasize that meat quality and cooking methods can affect health risks. Observational studies conducted at Harvard University noted that such studies do not establish an absolute causal relationship, thus highlighting the importance of differences in meat quality and preparation.

A study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) of the World Health Organization in 2015 classified processed meats (such as sausages and bacon) as carcinogenic. It reviewed data from over 800 studies worldwide, indicating that the consumption of processed red meat is linked to an increased risk of various cancers, particularly colorectal cancer. According to the study, consuming 50 grams of processed meat daily increased colorectal cancer risk by about 18%.

Another study published in 2012 focused on the impact of red meat consumption on mortality and disease risk, including cancer. It found that consuming one serving of red meat daily increased cancer risk by about 10% and pointed to an elevated risk of cancer and heart disease.