Published online Feb 15, 2025. doi: 10.4251/wjgo.v17.i2.101211
Revised: November 6, 2024
Accepted: December 9, 2024
Published online: February 15, 2025
Processing time: 132 Days and 19.2 Hours
Recently, there has been a significant increase in the consumption of ultra-processed foods worldwide. However, the association between the consumption of ultra-processed food, obesity, and the prevalence of colon cancer remains controversial.
To find out the association between the consumption of ultra-processed food, obesity, and the prevalence of colon cancer.
A comprehensive systematic literature search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for grey literature was done for articles published before 8th March 2023. The search was done to retrieve potential peer-reviewed articles that explored the association between the consumption of ultra-processed food, obesity, and the prevalence of colon cancer.
Of the 246 potential articles assessed, 17 met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis results demonstrated that high consumption of ultra-processed food is associated with an increased risk of obesity [odds ratio (OR): 1.65; 95%CI: 1.07-2.45; P < 0.05]. Consequently, there is a positive association between obesity and an increased risk of colon cancer (OR 1.48; 95%CI: 0.77-2.87; P > 0.05).
Consuming ultra-processed foods increases the risk of obesity and colon cancer.
Core Tip: High consumption of ultra-processed foods is significantly associated with an increased risk of obesity and colon cancer. Our systematic review and meta-analysis, which included 17 peer-reviewed studies, found that individuals with a high intake of ultra-processed foods had a 65% higher likelihood of developing obesity. Reducing the intake of these foods and promoting a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are essential strategies to mitigate obesity and cancer risk. Public health initiatives may further support these efforts.