High Intake of Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to Increased Cancer Death Risk

Eating large amounts of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) could raise the risk of death from cancer by nearly 60%, according to new research. The study suggests that increased inflammation and higher resting heart rate may partly explain this connection.

Researchers in Italy followed 24,325 adults aged 35 and older from the southern region of Molise between 2005 and 2022. Among them, 802 cancer survivors (476 women and 326 men) provided detailed dietary information. Their consumption of UPFs—including ice cream, processed meats, crisps, packaged bread, certain breakfast cereals, biscuits, ready meals, and sugary drinks—was calculated by weight and calories.

Participants were grouped into three categories based on UPF intake, with adjustments made for smoking, body mass index, exercise, medical history, cancer type, and overall diet quality. Over an average follow-up of 14.6 years, 281 of the 802 cancer survivors died.

Those in the highest UPF consumption group had a 48% higher risk of death from any cause and a 59% higher risk of death from cancer compared to those in the lowest intake group.

Dr. Marialaura Bonaccio of IRCCS Neuromed in Italy explained that industrial food processing may disrupt metabolism, alter gut microbiota, and trigger inflammation. “Even when ultra-processed foods appear similar nutritionally to natural foods, they can still have harmful effects on the body,” she said.

The study also looked at biomarkers related to inflammation, metabolism, and cardiovascular health, finding that higher UPF consumption may increase inflammation and resting heart rate, which could partly explain the link to higher mortality.

While certain UPF subgroups—like processed meats and sugary drinks—were more strongly associated with death, Dr. Bonaccio emphasized that overall consumption matters more than individual items. She advised reducing UPFs and favoring fresh, minimally processed, home-cooked foods, and suggested using labels as a guide: foods with more than five ingredients or even a single additive are likely ultra-processed.