Processed meat may be causing rise in bowel cancer

From telegraph.co.uk

Food safety expert says chemicals in bacon and ham giving them their pink colour are ‘one of the main suspects’ 

Eating processed meat may be to blame for a boom in bowel cancer, according to a scientist.

Prof Chris Elliott, founder of the Institute for Global Food Security at Queen’s University Belfast, said that chemicals found in bacon and ham are “one of the main suspects” for increased cases of the disease.

Early-onset bowel cancer has increased substantially in adults under 50 across the world since 1990.

Studies suggest the UK has one of the fastest-rising rates, with estimates putting the increase at around 60 per cent.

Speaking to the Today programme on BBC Radio 4, Prof Elliott said the increase was “down to our environment, what we eat, what we drink”.

“One of the main suspects that I’ve been pursuing for about 10 years is the use of a particular class of chemicals in the processing of meats, particularly in bacon and ham, called nitrates or nitrites,” he said.

“There is a growing body of evidence that the presence of these in the meats that we will consume are a contributory factor to the onset of colon cancer.”

Consuming large amounts of red meat has previously been associated with an increased risk of cancer.

However, Prof Elliott said he believed that eating red meat is “actually good for us [if] consumed in the right amount”.

Instead, he warned that chemicals added to ham and bacon to give them their pink colour and increase shelf life were to blame and called on the food safety watchdog to take action by placing warning labels on certain food packaging, following similar legislation in France.

“We have to point the finger at the regulator here, the Food Standards Agency (FSA), for basically sitting on their hands,” he said.

“Other parts of the world, particularly Europe, are taking this much more seriously.”

Figures from Cancer Research UK record around 48,200 new bowel cancer cases in the UK every year, including around 2,900 in people aged 25-49.

Experts at King’s College London and health science company Zoe plan to recruit 250,000 adults to complete online surveys on their diet, lifestyle, environment, and health in an attempt to discover why rates have been rising among the young.

The trial, known as Prospect-UK, will ask a smaller group to complete more detailed diet diaries, and to provide blood and stool samples.

Prof Sarah Berry, chief investigator of the trial and professor of nutritional sciences at King’s College London, said “large-scale, long-term data” was urgently needed.

“Over just a few generations our lifestyles, diets and environments have changed dramatically,” she added.

“But we don’t know which of these changes are increasing people’s risk of bowel cancer or which ones could help reduce it.”

Obesity is thought to be one factor in rising levels of bowel cancer among young adults, but Prof Elliott said that nitrate and nitrites were responsible for more than 50,000 cases in the past decade.

Other researchers said the risk can be reduced by opening windows to reduce household dust and eating more fibre, which can help harmful chemicals to pass through the gut quicker.

Ian Young, the chief scientific adviser for the FSA, said: “Nitrite and nitrate additives used in processed meat are tightly regulated and subject to strict maximum legal safety limits. We are clear that industry must use no more than necessary for food safety.

“We understand people may have concerns about the safety of nitrites and nitrates, but health risks apply to red and processed meat overall, not specifically to the nitrates or nitrites used in processing.

“Our position is based on the totality of the scientific evidence, and our advice remains that the safest way to reduce any risk from red and processed meat is to eat less of it, in line with NHS guidance.”

Tips to prevent bowel cancer

More than half of bowel cancer cases are preventable, says Haji. “Diet and lifestyle, as well as screening and surveillance, all influence your risk of getting bowel cancer.”

Following these basic rules will reduce your risk:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Exercising – half an hour or more a day, and avoid sitting for long periods of time
• Limit red meat (less than 500g a week) and processed meat
• Eat more fibre (aim for 90g)
• Reduce alcohol consumption (fewer than two drinks a day, and don’t binge-drink)
• Avoid smoking
• Include dairy in your diet (or consider supplementing with calcium if you are vegan)
• Talk to your GP about aspirin – some recommend taking it daily if you have a family history of bowel cancer
• Get screened regularly – consider paying if you are below the age to receive it on the NHS
• See your GP if you have any “red flag” symptoms, such as bleeding from your bottom, significant changes in bowel habit (e.g. diarrhoea or constipation) or unintentional weight loss

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/10/05/processed-meat-chris-elliott-rise-bowel-cancer-ham-bacon/

Rosacea treatments: What works?

From health.harvard.edu

By Julie Corliss

A range of therapies can address the facial redness, pimples, and other symptoms of this chronic skin condition

There’s no cure for rosacea, a skin condition marked by flushing, redness, and pimple-like bumps, mainly on the cheeks and nose. While many prescription creams and gels can help manage rosacea symptoms, a new scientific review suggests that two products—ivermectin 1% cream (Soolantra) and encapsulated benzoyl peroxide cream (Epsolay) — are the most effective topical options for bumps (see “A review of rosacea treatments”).

“The findings aligned with what we often see when treating people with rosacea,” says lead author Dr. John Barbieri, a dermatologist who specializes in inflammatory skin diseases at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital. But rosacea can cause a range of symptoms that can appear at different times, either alone or in combination. As a result, the optimal treatment for each individual might include one or more medications, including those you spread on the affected area (topical), take as a pill (oral), or that are  light-based (such as laser therapy).

What is rosacea?

Rosacea usually begins between the ages of 30 and 60. While the exact cause is unknown, experts believe genetic factors play a role, along with a weak skin barrier (which lets irritants in and moisture out), inflammation, and certain microorganisms like bacteria and Demodex mites (which are naturally present on everyone’s skin). “People with rosacea may also have extra-sensitive blood vessels and nerves, or what’s called neurovascular reactivity,” says Dr. Barbieri. That likely explains the recurrent flushing and redness, which can affect the cheeks, nose, chin, or forehead.

Over time, the redness may become more pronounced and persistent, and people may develop small, pimple-like bumps, known as papules or pustules. “Some people have tiny, broken blood vessels called telangiectasia. And some develop rhinophyma, which is a thickening of the skin on the nose,” says Dr. Barbieri. Rosacea can also cause irritation of the eyelids and eyes, which may appear bloodshot.

Rosacea is more common in women, who are more likely to have flushing and redness. Men are more likely to develop rhinophyma, but both sexes can experience all of the symptoms.

What causes rosacea flares?

Rosacea symptoms often flare up in response to certain environmental or lifestyle factors. Common examples include sun exposure, emotional stress, hot or cold weather, hot drinks, alcohol, and spicy foods. All can increase blood flow and cause the small blood vessels in the face to widen. “If you have rosacea, it can help to be aware of your triggers and try to avoid them when possible, but don’t make yourself miserable by being too restrictive,” Dr. Barbieri advises.

The best rosacea treatment for you

The best treatment for anyone with rosacea should be tailored to address the most bothersome symptoms. Ivermectin cream works by killing Demodex mites and helps calm inflammation. Benzoyl peroxide, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, is also used to treat acne, but it can irritate the skin. The encapsulated version is formulated to help minimize irritation. Even so, the recent review found that compared to people using other products, those using encapsulated benzoyl peroxide were more likely to stop due to side effects such as pain, itching, and swelling. Other topical treatments for pimple-like bumps include metronidazole (MetroCream, MetroGel) and azelaic acid (Azelex, Finacea). They help eradicate the bacteria thought to contribute to rosacea, says Dr. Barbieri.

If papules and pustules don’t improve with topical medications, dermatologists may prescribe oral antibiotics such as doxycycline (Oracea) or minocycline (Emrosi). These are usually taken for several months and sometimes longer. These pills may also help people with ocular rosacea, which causes eye-related symptoms such as redness and dryness, and affects about 10% of people with rosacea.

For people whose main symptoms are flushing and redness, medications that constrict the tiny blood vessels on the face can help. These include the topical drugs brimonidine (Mirvaso) and oxymetazoline (Rhofade). Procedures such as vascular laser therapy can also be helpful, especially for telangiectasia.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

https://www.health.harvard.edu/skin-and-hair-health/rosacea-treatments-what-works 

9 Myths About Breast Cancer: What’s True and What’s Not

From health.clevelandclinic.org

Not all breast lumps signal cancer, and not all breast cancer causes lumps — it’s important to know the facts 

When it comes to breast cancer, you can never be too safe. Having mammograms, doing breast self-exams and watching for warning signs can help detect cancer in its earliest stages and allow for timely treatment.

Increased awareness and candidness about breast health are good things, but they have also fuelled some common misconceptions. Knowing the truth about breast cancer can help you better understand your own breast health, including when to talk to a healthcare provider.

Common myths about breast cancer

Does breast cancer always cause pain? Are all lumps always cancerous? Are mammograms actually safe? Oncologist Halle Moore, MD, sets us straight on some of the most common myths about this disease.

Myth #1: A lump in your breast is probably cancer

It can be scary to discover a new lump in your breast. But try to take a breath before jumping to any conclusions. Breast lumps are actually very common, and most of them are benign, meaning they’re not cancerous.

Just how common? Research shows that up to 50% of women between the ages of 20 and 50 experience breast tissue changes that cause noncancerous lumps, like cysts and fibroadenomas. These lumps are often related to changing hormone levels — and sometimes, they don’t even require treatment.

Still, you should never ignore a lump in your breast or assume it will go away on its own.

“Any time you notice lumps or other changes in your breasts, it’s important to see a healthcare provider,” Dr. Moore emphasizes. “There’s a high chance that it won’t be breast cancer. But in case it is, early diagnosis is critical.”

Myth #2: Breast cancer is mostly a concern for older women

It’s true that your breast cancer risk increases as you get older: This condition is more common in women over age 40 than in younger women. But that doesn’t mean younger women can’t get it.

In fact, one study found that women under age 40 accounted for about 5% of all breast cancer cases. But younger women were more likely to be diagnosed with more aggressive and advanced forms of cancer.

“Breast cancer can occur at any age in an adult, especially if there's a family history or other risk factors,” Dr. Moore states.

Myth #3: Only women get breast cancer

Breast cancer is far more common in women. But it can happen to men, too — and it can develop in men who don’t have any known risk factors,

“Male breast cancer makes up less than 1% of all breast cancer cases,” Dr. Moore reports. “But ignoring the signs can lead men to dismiss their symptoms and delay seeking care.”

As in women, breast cancer in men can develop at any age. But most cases are diagnosed in men aged 60 to 70.

Myth #4: If you don’t have a family history, you’re not at risk

If one or more of your biological relatives has had breast cancer, you may be at a higher risk for developing it, too. There are more than a dozen genes that can substantially raise your risk of this disease.

But a lack of family history doesn’t mean you’re in the clear.

“Breast cancer can affect anyone, even if it doesn’t run in your family,” Dr. Moore clarifies.

Myth #5: Breast cancer always starts with a lump

A lump or a firm area in the breast is one of the most common symptoms of breast cancer. But not always.

“Less often, people can have pain or swelling in the breast or a swollen lymph node in the underarm area,” Dr. Moore says. “And sometimes, there are no symptoms from breast cancer at all.”

That’s one of the many reasons why it’s so important to have regular mammography screenings starting at age 40 (or earlier, if your healthcare provider recommends it). These screenings are the most common way that breast cancer is diagnosed.

Myth #6: A breast lump that moves isn’t cancer

Some breast cancer lumps are fixed, meaning they stay in place when you touch them. But don’t assume that a lump can’t be cancerous just because it isn’t fixed.

“Breast cancer lumps are often movable in the early stages,” Dr. Moore says. “As they progress, they become less movable and more fixed, which feels different than the breast tissue around them.”

Myth #7: Breast cancer symptoms are painless

Breast cancer can sometimes cause breast pain, depending on where it occurs in the breast — and especially if it grows quickly. Breast pain in one consistent, particular spot is a warning sign.

But that doesn’t mean that breast pain always signifies cancer.

“Many women experience general breast pain or soreness that comes and goes. But that’s not necessarily a sign of cancer,” Dr. Moore says. “It’s often due to hormonal factors instead.”

Myth #8: Mammograms cause cancer

You might’ve heard that mammograms themselves contribute to cancer risk. But they’re considered exceptionally safe.

“Mammograms do expose your breasts to small amounts of radiation,” Dr. Moore acknowledges. “But study after study confirms that the benefits of mammography outweigh the risks of late diagnosis.”

There are rare times when your healthcare provider might recommend an alternative to mammography, like if you’re considered high-risk for receiving radiation. Ask your provider if you have any questions or concerns.

Myth #9: Doctors can tell if a lump is cancer by feeling it

Neither you nor your healthcare provider — no matter how good they are — can tell with certainty whether a lump is cancerous without diagnostic evaluation.

“Saying, ‘It’s probably OK,’ without investigating further can cause a delay in diagnosing breast cancer,” Dr. Moore cautions.

When to talk to a healthcare provider

There are lots of myths and misconceptions out there about breast cancer. But knowing the truth can help you understand when to seek care.

“Lumps, pain and other breast abnormalities can have a variety of causes that aren’t cancer, but it’s always important to get them checked out to be sure,” Dr. Moore reiterates. “And the more familiar you are with your own breasts, the better you’ll be able to notice changes if they do occur.”

The sooner you have your symptoms evaluated, the better. If it is breast cancer, an early diagnosis allows for earlier treatment — and if it’s not breast cancer, that reassurance will be invaluable.

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/breast-cancer-myths

Early warning signs of colorectal cancer are often mistaken for other conditions

From vietnam.vn

Many people think diarrhoea is a symptom of irritable bowel syndrome. However, it can be a warning sign of colorectal cancer

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), colorectal cancer is the third most common malignancy globally and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths.

Nutrition expert Li Wanping (Taiwan, China ) warns that this disease is silently threatening the health of many people in their 50s. She once witnessed a friend being diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer, despite previously only experiencing frequent fatigue and pale skin, which she had overlooked.

Similarly, a college friend of Dr. Li also died suddenly at the age of 50 from this disease. For many years, the patient mistakenly thought that the recurring diarrhoea was just due to work stress, and by the time he went for a check-up, it was too late.

Be wary of these three unusual signs.

According to Dr. Ly, irritable bowel syndrome is a benign condition, while colorectal cancer can be life-threatening if not detected and treated early. The expert warns that if the following conditions appear, patients should go to medical facilities for timely diagnosis and treatment.

1. Changes in bowel habits

One of the early signs of colorectal cancer is an unusual change in bowel habits. Patients may suddenly switch from constipation to diarrhoea, have frequent bowel movements (4-6 times or more), or feel an increased urge to defecate without a clear cause.

According to the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines, persistent changes in bowel habits are a sign that should be evaluated to rule out colorectal cancer. When a tumour grows in the bowel, it can obstruct the passage of stool, alter the rhythm of bowel contractions, and lead to diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating both.

Importantly, these changes often last for weeks and do not improve even after the patient adjusts their diet or uses common medications for digestive disorders.

Changes in bowel habits or persistent fatigue can be early warning signs of digestive problems. Photo: Magnific.

2. The shape of the stool changes.

Not only the frequency of bowel movements, but also the shape of stool can reflect the condition of the colon. If stool suddenly becomes small, flat like a pencil, or thinner than normal for an extended period, this could be a sign that a tumour is narrowing the bowel, causing stool to pass through only a small gap.

Additionally, the presence of blood in the stool is a sign that requires special attention. The blood may be bright red if it originates from the lower part of the colon or darker in colour once it has passed through the digestive tract. In many cases, the amount of blood is so small that it cannot be observed with the naked eye and can only be detected through a foecal occult blood test (FIT).

Experts emphasize that while these changes can also be caused by haemorrhoids, polyps, or irritable bowel syndrome, if they persist or occur simultaneously with other symptoms, a colonoscopy is necessary to determine the cause.

3. Anaemia of unknown origin

Not all cases of colorectal cancer cause visible bleeding. Many tumours only leak a small amount of blood, but it is continuous over a long period. The amount of blood lost each day may be so small that the patient doesn't notice it, but after weeks or months it will lead to iron deficiency and anaemia.

At that time, patients often exhibit pale skin, pale mucous membranes, persistent fatigue, reduced exercise capacity, dizziness, or light-headedness. These are sometimes the first signs that prompt patients to seek medical attention before more pronounced digestive symptoms appear.

Therefore, NICE guidelines recommend that individuals with unexplained iron-deficiency anaemia, particularly middle-aged and older adults, should be assessed for colorectal cancer risk using foecal occult blood testing (FIT) and colonoscopy when necessary.

Dietary regimens to prevent colorectal cancer

According to experts, colorectal cancer, if detected and treated early, has a very high cure rate. Everyone should proactively undergo regular screenings, such as foecal occult blood tests or colonoscopies as directed by their doctor, especially those at high risk.

Besides screening, diet plays a crucial role in preventing this disease. In his famous book *How Not to Die* , Dr. Michael Greger analysed the top 15 causes of death based on peer-reviewed scientific evidence. He pointed out that colorectal cancer is the disease most significantly affected by diet. Evidence shows that the incidence rate in communities with low meat consumption and high fibre intake is dozens of times lower than in Western countries.

Therefore, increasing the consumption of vegetables and whole grains, and reducing red and processed meats, is considered a key solution. A high-fibre diet helps increase stool volume, shorten the time waste remains in the intestines, thereby reducing the exposure of the colon lining to carcinogens, while maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.

In parallel, studies have also shown an increased risk of colorectal cancer in people who smoke, drink excessive alcohol, are overweight or obese, or are sedentary. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and eliminating harmful habits are crucial factors in protecting overall gut health.

https://www.vietnam.vn/en/dau-hieu-canh-bao-som-ung-thu-dai-truc-trang-de-nham-lan