Ultra-processed Food = Greater Cancer Risk

In summary, the article discusses some of the problems with research findings and how they can be misleading. It points out that often research findings are simply accurate measures of the prevailing bias, and that this can have serious implications for the way we understand the world.
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Tom.G
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Correlation is not causation. One obvious confounding factor which it appears from the abstract that the authors did not control for is socioeconomic status.
 
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Ygggdrasil said:
Correlation is not causation. One obvious confounding factor which it appears from the abstract that the authors did not control for is socioeconomic status.
Agreed.
See about 60% of the way thru the report under "Strengths and limitations of study":
"Firstly, as is generally the case in volunteer based cohorts, participants in the NutriNet-Santé cohort were more often women, with health conscious behaviours and higher socio-professional and educational levels than the general French population.56" (emphasis added)

Also article footnotes 31, 32, 56.
 
  • #4
A couple other things (without first reading the articles...)
10% is a really low signal to noise ratio
"Processed" is typically pretty poorly defined and a broad set of actions
 
  • #5
russ_watters said:
"Processed"
My first reaction? "Dirty" stainless steel. "Dirty" meaning poorly refined/manufactured; lots of heavy metal impurities, As, Sb, and the like.
 
  • #6
russ_watters said:
10% is a really low signal to noise ratio
Sure is! (About 0.4dB Signal-to-Noise Ratio. :wink:)
russ_watters said:
"Processed" is typically pretty poorly defined and a broad set of actions
Yes, again. That's why the second link is there, it points to the internationally recognized definitions.
 
  • #7
Think this is an example of:

http://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmed.0020124

Abstract
Summary
There is increasing concern that most current published research findings are false. The probability that a research claim is true may depend on study power and bias, the number of other studies on the same question, and, importantly, the ratio of true to no relationships among the relationships probed in each scientific field. In this framework, a research finding is less likely to be true when the studies conducted in a field are smaller; when effect sizes are smaller; when there is a greater number and lesser preselection of tested relationships; where there is greater flexibility in designs, definitions, outcomes, and analytical modes; when there is greater financial and other interest and prejudice; and when more teams are involved in a scientific field in chase of statistical significance. Simulations show that for most study designs and settings, it is more likely for a research claim to be false than true. Moreover, for many current scientific fields, claimed research findings may often be simply accurate measures of the prevailing bias. In this essay, I discuss the implications of these problems for the conduct and interpretation of research
 

1. What is ultra-processed food?

Ultra-processed food refers to food products that have undergone multiple processing steps and contain added substances such as preservatives, artificial flavors, and colors. These foods are often low in essential nutrients and high in calories, sugar, and unhealthy fats.

2. How does ultra-processed food increase cancer risk?

Ultra-processed food has been linked to an increased risk of cancer due to its high content of additives, preservatives, and unhealthy ingredients. These substances can damage cells and DNA, leading to the development of cancer.

3. What types of cancer are associated with consuming ultra-processed food?

Studies have shown that consuming a high amount of ultra-processed food is associated with an increased risk of developing breast, colon, and prostate cancer. However, more research is needed to fully understand the link between ultra-processed food and cancer.

4. Are all ultra-processed foods harmful?

Not all ultra-processed foods are considered harmful, as there are some that can be part of a healthy diet in moderation. However, it is important to limit the consumption of ultra-processed foods and choose whole, minimally processed foods as much as possible to reduce cancer risk.

5. What are some examples of ultra-processed foods?

Ultra-processed foods include packaged snacks, sugary drinks, frozen meals, fast food, and processed meats. These foods often have a long list of ingredients and are highly processed, making them convenient but not always the healthiest choice. Fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins are examples of healthier, less processed options.

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