Prostate Cancer: South Korea's Top Cancer for Men; Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to Higher Risk

Prostate cancer has become the leading cancer diagnosis for South Korean men, surpassing lung and stomach cancers, with 22,640 new cases reported in 2023. This statistic highlights a growing health concern for the nation's aging male population.

A recent study published in The American Journal of Medicine suggests a correlation between high intake of ultra-processed foods and an elevated risk of developing prostate cancer. Researchers from Florida Atlantic University analyzed data from 17,024 men aged 18 and older who participated in the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2003 and 2023.

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All healthcare professionals should advise patients to follow healthy lifestyle habits and evidence-based treatments, while also helping them reduce their intake of ultra-processed foods.

The study divided participants into four groups based on the percentage of their daily calories derived from ultra-processed foods. Those consuming the highest proportion (over 44% of daily calories) showed a significantly increased risk of prostate cancer compared to those consuming the least (under 20%). Even after adjusting for factors like age, race, smoking status, and socioeconomic level, the association persisted.

Ultra-processed foods, which include items like sodas, packaged snacks, processed meats, and instant meals, are industrially manufactured with added sugars, fats, salt, and preservatives. Previous research has linked their consumption to various health issues, including obesity, metabolic diseases, inflammation, cardiovascular problems, and premature death. This study adds prostate cancer to the list of potential risks, suggesting that reducing intake of these foods could be a crucial step in promoting better health.

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Patients and clinicians should consider this result as part of a broader effort to promote healthier food choices.