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Ultra processed Food (UPF) Consumption and Risk of Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer (EOCRC) Precursors Among Women

Chen Wang, Mengxi Du, Hanseul Kim, et al. JAMA Oncol. 2026 Jan 1;12(1):49-57

In this study, higher UPF intake was associated with increased risk of early-onset colorectal conventional adenomas. These data highlight the important role of UPFs in early-onset colorectal tumorigenesis and support improving dietary quality as a strategy to mitigate the increasing burden of EOCRC. Among 29,105 female participants over 24 years of follow-up, 1189 cases were documented of early-onset conventional adenomas and 1598 serrated lesions. UPFs provided 34.8% of total daily calories. Participants with higher UPF intake had an increased risk of early-onset conventional adenomas (P < .001) but not serrated lesions (P = .48). Findings were consistent after further adjustment for body mass index, type 2 diabetes, dietary factors (fiber, folate, calcium, and vitamin D), and Alternative Healthy Eating Index-2010 score.

24 Mar, 2026