Priyanka
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Cancer remains a major health concern worldwide. Millions of people lose their lives to this disease every year. In 2023, approximately 10 million people died due to cancer globally. In India alone, around 15 lakh people lost their lives to cancer this year. Data indicates that the number of cancer cases in India in 2023 was higher than in 2022. Additionally, cases of stomach cancer also saw an increase in 2023 compared to the previous year.
Factors Contributing to Cancer Risk
Health experts state that various environmental, genetic, and lifestyle factors contribute to the increasing risk of cancer. Those with a family history of cancer are advised to take special precautions to minimize their risk. Unhealthy dietary habits, lack of exercise, and exposure to certain chemicals are also known risk factors.
Viral Video Raises Concerns About Junk Food and Cancer
A video recently went viral on social media, raising concerns about the link between junk food consumption and cancer. In the video, a cancer patient claims that excessive consumption of oily and junk foods like burgers, chowmein, and bhatura led to his illness. The person, who is undergoing chemotherapy, mentions that he has been diagnosed with fourth-stage cancer and has spent a significant amount on treatment.
This video has led to widespread concern, with many questioning whether eating burgers and chowmein can directly cause cancer.
Expert Opinion: Do Burgers and Chowmein Cause Cancer?
Dr. Amit Upadhyay, a Consultant in Medical Oncology at PSRI Hospital, Delhi, refutes the claim made in the viral video. He explains that it is incorrect to say that consuming burgers and chowmein directly leads to cancer. However, diet does play a role in increasing the risk of certain types of cancer, particularly intestinal cancer.
Key dietary risk factors include:
- High consumption of processed and red meat
- Low fiber intake, which may contribute to digestive issues and cancer risk
- Excessive intake of ultra-processed foods
While junk food is harmful to health, blaming it solely for cancer is misleading. Cancer development is influenced by multiple factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and environmental exposure.
Scientific Studies on Diet and Cancer
Several studies have examined the relationship between diet and cancer risk.
- A 2019 review of studies found that high intake of processed meat is a significant risk factor for colorectal cancer.
- Another study linked processed meat consumption to an increased risk of stomach cancer.
- A 2018 study reported that high processed meat intake could also elevate the risk of breast cancer.
- The American Society of Nutrition highlighted that diets high in sugary and starchy foods increase the risk of type-2 diabetes and obesity, both of which contribute to inflammation and oxidative stress—factors that may lead to cancer.
Junk and Processed Foods: Harmful for Overall Health
Dr. Amit emphasizes that while a bad diet is a contributing factor to cancer, it is not the sole cause. Junk and processed foods are generally unhealthy due to their lack of essential nutrients. Regular consumption of such foods can lead to various health issues, including obesity, diabetes, and metabolic disorders.
To reduce health risks, it is advisable to limit the consumption of processed and junk foods and adopt a nutrient-rich diet that includes:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins
- Healthy fats
By maintaining a balanced diet, individuals can lower their risk of developing chronic diseases, including cancer.
Debunking the Claim About Snake Venom in Chemotherapy
The viral video also makes another claim that the patient received snake venom during his chemotherapy sessions.
Dr. Nitin Singh, an oncologist from Lucknow, clarifies that this claim is completely false. Chemotherapy is a medical treatment used in advanced-stage cancer (third and fourth stages) where specific drugs are administered to kill cancer cells or stop their spread. While chemotherapy drugs contain various chemical compounds, they do not include snake venom.
Misinformation like this can create unnecessary fear and confusion among the public. It is essential to rely on verified medical information rather than unverified social media claims.
