​Regular consumers of processed meats may have a high propensity of developing colon cancer.

​This study assessed the correlation between consistent consumption of processed meats and the odds of developing colon, rectal, and colorectal cancer. Researchers systematically reviewed data and evidence obtained from 3 studies that examined the intake of processed meats as a risk factor for colon and rectal cancers.

Researchers observed that the risk of developing colon cancer, especially in the proximal part of the colon, was high in individuals who habitually consumed processed meats. However, generous intake of processed meats was found to have no significant effect on rectal and colorectal cancer risk in this study. The results of this study support the theory that high dietary ingestion of processed meats may increase an individual's susceptibility to colon cancer.