People who avoid meat could significantly reduce their risk of developing cancer, according to one of the largest and most detailed studies on vegetarian diets.
Researchers tracked nearly 80,000 members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in North America — many of whom follow plant-based eating patterns — over an average of eight years. None had cancer at the start of the study, which recorded detailed dietary information and monitored their health outcomes.
The results showed that vegetarians had a 12% lower overall risk of developing cancer compared to meat eaters in the same community. Notable reductions included:
- Colorectal cancer: 21% lower risk
- Stomach cancer: 45% lower risk
- Lymphoproliferative cancers (including lymphoma): 25% lower risk
When breaking results down by diet type, vegans — who avoid all animal products — had the largest reduction in overall cancer risk at 24% lower than meat eaters, including reduced rates of breast and prostate cancer. Lacto-ovo vegetarians (who consume dairy and eggs) saw some protection against blood cancers, while pescatarians (who eat fish but no other meat) had fewer colorectal cancers.
Although researchers accounted for lifestyle differences such as smoking, alcohol intake, physical activity, and education, they could not determine the exact proportion of cancer risk reduction directly attributable to diet. However, the findings support existing evidence that diets low in meat and high in fibre, wholegrains, fruits, and vegetables can reduce gastrointestinal cancer risk.
Britain faces rising cancer rates, especially amongst under-50s, making prevention strategies increasingly important.
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