Discover 4 foods considered carcinogenic by the WHO – 06/29/2023 – Equilíbrio

The WHO (World Health Organization) should include aspartame, an artificial sweetener used in diet sodas, on the list of possibly carcinogenic agents for humans. In addition to this classification, the agency also lists those with the potential to cause the disease.

The listing of the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer), the arm of the WHO responsible for research and recommendations on cancer, indicates chemical compounds, medicines and foods that may be related to different types of the disease.

Compounds are ranked according to the quality and quantity of scientific evidence linking them to the development of cancer.

Aspartame should be listed as “possibly carcinogenic” along with other products such as red meat and pickled vegetables. Evidence indicates that these foods are associated with an increased risk of several types of cancer, but there is no scientific consensus.

In addition to products with carcinogenic potential, there are foods in the most robust evidence group, already considered carcinogenic to humans by the WHO. Check out what they are:

processed meats

The consumption of processed meats, such as sausage, ham and sausage, is related to the development of bowel cancer.

The relationship of this food with cancer has been recognized by the WHO since 2018, and consumption in large amounts is seen as a risk factor by experts.

According to a 2021 review of studies, the chances of developing colorectal cancer increase by up to 18% with the consumption of processed meats. As for colon cancer, the growth is 21%, and for disease in the rectum, 22%.

The study authors also point out that these foods are related to other types of cancer, such as breast and lung.

Alcoholic beverages

The harmful effects of alcohol consumption, even in moderate amounts, have been highlighted by recent recommendations and guidelines on the substance.

Some analyzes indicate that no amount of alcohol is safe for health. Alcoholic beverages are linked to liver failure and addiction problems, in addition to favoring the development of cancers.

Alcohol has been included on the WHO carcinogenic list since 2012. A survey published in 2021 estimated that about 4% of new cancer cases in 2020 could be associated with substance consumption.

Some of the types of disease that may be related to alcoholic beverages are: esophagus, liver and breast.

chinese salted fish

Traditional Chinese salted fish undergoes a process similar to sun-dried meat, in which salt is used to preserve and cure the food.

It has been listed by the WHO as a carcinogen since 2012, but its link with cancer has been studied for years, mainly due to a higher incidence of nasopharyngeal cancer associated with its consumption.

However, a study published in 2019 indicates that these occurrences may be mainly related to consumption during adolescence.

areca nut

Areca nut, also known as betel nut, comes from a palm tree common in Asia, and has a stimulating effect, which makes it popular in some countries in the region.

The food has been on the WHO carcinogens list for ten years, and its consumption is linked to the occurrence of oral cancer.

The nut is also often chewed, with the addition of other substances such as hydrated lime and tobacco, which can intensify the carcinogenic effects.

However, a 2022 review showed that, even when consumed pure, areca nut is related to an intense increase in the incidence of cancer of the oral cavity.