Rung 4 · Strong
Limit processed and red meat
Processed meat is a known cause of colorectal cancer.
PreventionYou can do this
What studies found
The WHO's cancer agency classified processed meat as carcinogenic for colorectal cancer in 2015 and red meat as probably carcinogenic. Colorectal risk rises about 16% per 50 g of processed meat a day.
The catch
Risk rises with amount; occasional servings carry small absolute risk.
What to do
Make bacon, ham, hot dogs and deli meats occasional. Swap in fish, beans or tofu.
Sources
Rung 4 of 5, Strong: At least one large randomized trial, or very large consistent studies, on this exact question. How we score
To take it to your doctor, print this page.
Step by step
For the whole picture, from prevention and screening to treatment and life after, see the colorectal cancer and prostate cancer pages.
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