Scimex: Given the strong evidence that consuming processed meat raises the risk
of bowel cancer, should we be cutting back on the ham sammies?
University of Otago public health researchers say processed meat imposes
substantial health costs of bowel cancer, as well as cardiovascular
disease and type 2 diabetes for which there is some evidence of a link
with red and processed meat. They suggest health agencies could
encourage reduced consumption through product labels, promotional
campaigns and portion limits in schools and hospitals. They also say
given the high impact of agriculture on greenhouse gas emissions,
including agriculture in the Emissions Trading Scheme could help reduce
both consumption and emissions.
