Diet under scrutiny: Red meat may increase women's risk of breast cancer
A new global study reveals a growing link between red meat consumption and the risk of dying from breast cancer in young women. Scientists analyzed more than 30 years of data and found that the problem is particularly acute in developing countries. Experts urge dietary changes and preventive measures.
A team of researchers published a new study in the journal Frontiers in Public Health that links high red meat consumption to rising breast cancer deaths in women. The analysis included data from 1990 to 2021 from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) project, which covers 204 countries. The results are alarming: the number of deaths attributed to red meat increased by a whopping 79.7%, and the DALY rate, or years of life lost or lived with disability, increased by 74.5%.
The researchers focused on women aged 25–45. Although there are declines in disease incidence in highly developed countries, the situation is worsening in regions with low and medium levels of socio-economic development. The results from China are particularly worrying, with a sharp increase in deaths. The authors of the study warn that changes in diet – following the Western model – may worsen the situation in developing countries.
The study used metrics such as ASMR (age-standardized mortality rate) and DALY (disability-adjusted life years) to show the true burden of disease. Regions with low SDI (e.g. sub-Saharan Africa) saw the largest percentage increases despite fewer deaths.
- The burden tended to peak in regions with moderate SDI, the report authors noted.
Back in 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified unprocessed red meat as “probably carcinogenic to humans” (Group 2A). But there was still no clear evidence to show a link to a specific cancer, like breast cancer. Now, after more than three decades of research, scientists have solid data in their hands.
- Global meat consumption has almost doubled since 1961 - the authors of the study remind.
Experts call for educational and dietary interventions. Women, doctors and public health institutions should pay attention to the fact that changing daily habits – such as reducing red meat consumption – can save lives.
- Our results highlight the need for targeted health care and nutritional interventions - we read in the report.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide, killing 670,000 people in 2022 alone. A new study provides hard evidence that diet plays a bigger role in the disease than previously thought. Cutting back on red meat may be one of the simplest steps you can take to prevent cancer.
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