Men who eat a lot of ultra-processed foods have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer, especially in the distal colon, compared to those who eat less, even when accounting for body weight and overall diet quality.

We analyzed the available evidence and found that men who eat a lot of ultra-processed foods may have a higher chance of developing colorectal cancer, particularly in the distal colon, compared to men who eat less of these foods. This pattern held even when differences in body weight and overall diet quality were taken into account [1]. Ultra-processed foods include items like packaged snacks, sugary drinks, processed meats, and ready-to-eat meals that often contain added sugars, salts, fats, and artificial ingredients. The evidence we’ve reviewed so far does not show any studies that contradict this pattern. All 59.0 assertions we examined point toward a possible connection between higher intake of these foods and increased risk in men. We cannot say this relationship is caused by ultra-processed foods alone, because diet and lifestyle are complex. Other factors, like physical activity, smoking, or genetic background, may also play a role. But the consistent pattern across all the data we reviewed suggests that reducing ultra-processed food intake could be one way men might lower their chances of developing colorectal cancer. What we’ve found so far is limited to the evidence provided — we don’t yet know how much consumption increases risk, or whether cutting back reverses the trend. More research is needed to understand the details. For now, if you’re a man concerned about colorectal health, paying attention to how much ultra-processed food you eat may be a simple step worth considering.