Processed Meat Intake, CYP2A6 Activity and Risk of Colorectal Adenoma

Fondness for processed meats may stimulate the formation of colorectal adenomas.

Polyps, including the adenomatous type (adenomas), are the precursor of colorectal cancer. This study focused on the correlation between the ingestion of processed meats and the chances of being diagnosed with colorectal adenomas. Researchers analyzed the dietary records of 146 persons diagnosed with colorectal adenomas and 228 polyp-free individuals. 

Researchers discovered that the risk of developing colorectal adenomas jumped by 2-fold among high consumers of processed meats. This study demonstrates that avid consumers of processed meats may be highly vulnerable to having colorectal adenomas.