Vegetarian Diets Linked to Lower Cancer Risks, but Vegans Face Higher Risks for Some Types

A comprehensive study led by researchers at Oxford Population Health has revealed that vegetarian diets are associated with a significantly lower risk of five types of cancer, including breast, prostate, kidney, and pancreatic cancers, as well as multiple myeloma. The study, published in the *British Journal of Cancer*, analyzed data from over 1.8 million participants across three continents and was funded by the World Cancer Research Fund. Specifically, the research found a 21% lower risk of pancreatic cancer, a 9% lower risk of breast cancer, a 12% lower risk of prostate cancer, a 28% lower risk of kidney cancer, and a 31% lower risk of multiple myeloma among vegetarians compared to meat eaters.

Largest study of vegetarian diets and cancer shows lower risk of five cancersVegetarian diet can slash the risk of five cancers by as much as 30% – study

However, the study also highlighted a concerning trend: vegetarians exhibited nearly double the risk of squamous cell carcinoma of the oesophagus compared to their meat-eating counterparts. Additionally, vegans were found to have a 40% higher risk of colorectal cancer, which researchers attribute to lower calcium intake and potentially other nutrient deficiencies.

The study's findings suggest that while vegetarian diets may confer protective benefits against certain cancers, they may also pose risks for others, particularly for vegans. Dr. Aurora Pérez-Cornago, the principal investigator, noted that the low average calcium intake among vegans—590 mg per day compared to the UK recommendation of 700 mg—could be a contributing factor to the increased cancer risk. Furthermore, the researchers indicated that the overall low intake of processed and red meat among participants may have influenced the results, suggesting that further investigation is necessary to understand the specific dietary components that affect cancer risk.

Vegetarian diet can slash the risk of five cancers by as much as 30% – studyLargest study of vegetarian diets and cancer shows lower risk of five cancers

Experts have called for additional studies to clarify these findings. Prof. Jules Griffin from the University of Aberdeen emphasized the need for a comparison with diets adhering to the NHS Eatwell guidelines, which promote moderate meat and fish consumption while ensuring essential nutrient intake. Dr. Helen Croker from the World Cancer Research Fund International advised that individuals should focus on building meals around whole grains, pulses, fruits, and vegetables while avoiding processed meats and limiting red meat.

Amy Hirst, health information manager at Cancer Research UK, acknowledged the study's insights but cautioned that the findings are not definitive. She stressed the importance of a balanced diet over individual food choices in reducing cancer risk.

Vegetarian diet can slash the risk of five cancers by as much as 30% – study

While the study presents significant findings regarding the relationship between diet and cancer risk, it also leaves gaps in understanding the underlying mechanisms. The researchers noted that the relatively low number of colorectal cancer cases among vegans (93 cases) limits the ability to draw robust conclusions. Additionally, the study did not account for the rising consumption of ultra-processed foods, which may have implications for dietary health.

• “This study is really good news for those who follow a vegetarian diet because they have a lower risk of five cancer types, some of which are very prevalent in the population.” — Dr. Aurora Pérez-Cornago, Principal Investigator

• “To increase your overall protection from cancer, our advice is to build meals around wholegrains, pulses, fruit and vegetables, and avoid processed meat and limit red meat.” — Dr. Helen Croker, Assistant Director of Research and Policy, World Cancer Research Fund International

Vegetarian diet can slash the risk of five cancers by as much as 30% – study

• “More research in larger, more diverse populations is needed to better understand these patterns and what’s causing them.” — Amy Hirst, Health Information Manager, Cancer Research UK

Vegetarian diet can slash the risk of five cancers by as much as 30% – study

The findings underscore the complexity of dietary impacts on health, highlighting both the protective benefits of vegetarian diets and the potential risks associated with veganism. Further research is essential to navigate these nuances and provide clearer dietary guidance for cancer prevention.

Largest study of vegetarian diets and cancer shows lower risk of five cancers