an area of scientific research.
Does Eating Processed Meat Mean You Will Get Cancer?
No.
This is an important distinction.
A higher risk does not mean that every person who eats processed meat will develop cancer.
Cancer is influenced by many factors, including:
- Genetics
- Age
- Physical activity
- Body weight
- Smoking
- Alcohol consumption
- Overall diet
- Environmental exposures
- Family history
Processed meat is one factor among many.
The Amount Matters
Health risks generally depend on how much processed meat a person consumes.
Eating processed meat occasionally is very different from eating it