Red and Processed Meat Increase Risk For Breast Cancer

Red and processed meat products increase the risk for breast cancer, according to a systematic review published in the International Journal of Cancer. Researchers looked at 18 studies and evaluated the relationship between breast cancer rates and intake of red and processed meat. Results showed increased risks for breast cancer with increased consumption of red meat and processed meat by 6 percent and 9 percent, respectively. Researchers attribute the increased risk to high amounts of saturated fat, cholesterol, and heme iron found in these foods.