Studies show that eating ultra-processed foods does not appear to increase colorectal cancer risk in women, but it is linked to higher risk in men. This difference may be due to biological or dietary factors that vary by sex.

We analyzed the available evidence and found that ultra-processed food intake may be linked to higher colorectal cancer risk in men but not in women. The evidence we’ve reviewed so far includes one assertion that suggests this difference exists, with no studies contradicting it [1]. What we’ve found so far is that men who consume more ultra-processed foods — such as packaged snacks, sugary drinks, and ready-to-eat meals — appear to have a higher association with colorectal cancer compared to women who eat similar amounts. The reason for this difference is not fully clear, but it could relate to biological factors like hormone levels, how the body processes certain ingredients, or differences in overall diet patterns between men and women. We did not find any studies that show the opposite — that ultra-processed foods raise risk equally in both sexes or only in women. However, this conclusion is based on only one assertion, and the evidence is limited in scope. We cannot say whether this pattern holds across all populations, age groups, or types of ultra-processed foods. More research would be needed to understand why this difference might exist, or if other factors like physical activity, body weight, or gut health play a role. For now, the evidence we’ve reviewed leans toward a sex-based difference in how ultra-processed foods may relate to colorectal cancer risk. If you’re concerned about your risk, paying attention to how much of these foods you eat — especially if you’re male — could be one part of a broader approach to long-term health.