Meat and processed meat consumption are common food items in many cultures and societies across the globe. Nevertheless, the global consumption of red and processed meats raises concerns related to health and disease.

The World Health Organization (WHO) classified processed meat as a Group 1 carcinogen, indicating that there is strong evidence that it causes cancer in humans. Breast cancer is a severe health problem- it is one of the leading causes of cancer death in women worldwide.

What is sausage?

Sausages are a meat product made from ground meat, seasonings, spices, and other ingredients such as salt, preservatives, and water. Sausages can be eaten raw, cooked, or baked.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines sausage as any meat product that is processed, cured, or otherwise treated to enhance their flavor, texture, or preservation.

How much sausage is too much?

Several studies suggest a link between the consumption of processed meat, such as sausages, and an increased risk of cancer.

So, how much sausage is too much? There is no standard answer to this question because the cancer risk associated with sausage consumption depends on several factors such as the type of sausage, the amount consumed, and the frequency of consumption.

Types of sausages

Sausages are made from different types of meat, such as beef, pork, lamb, or chicken, and can vary in preparation and processing methods. Some common types of sausages include:.

Hot dogs
Bologna
Salami
Pepperoni
Chorizo
Andouille

Cancer risk and sausage consumption

A significant amount of evidence suggests that consuming processed meat, such as sausages, increases the risks of developing some cancers, including breast cancer.

According to a study published in the International Journal of Cancer, the risk of breast cancer increases by 9% for every 100 grams of processed meat consumed per day. With that being said, a recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute suggests that the risk of breast cancer related to consuming processed meats could be even higher than previously believed.

The study found that women who consume an average of one sausage per day over their lifetime have a 20% higher risk of developing breast cancer.

Risk factors for breast cancer

Several risk factors for breast cancer include:.

Gender: women have a higher risk of developing breast cancer than men.
Age: the risk of breast cancer increases with age.
Family history: women with a family history of breast cancer have a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
Certain gene mutations: women who carry certain gene mutations have a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
Certain medical conditions: women with certain medical conditions such as breast density or benign breast lumps have an increased risk of developing breast cancer.
Lifestyle factors: certain lifestyle factors such as consuming processed meats, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and lack of physical activity can increase the risk of breast cancer.

Reducing the risk of breast cancer

There are several ways to reduce the risk of breast cancer, such as:.

Eat a healthy diet: a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.
Maintain a healthy weight: being overweight or obese increases the risk of breast cancer.
Exercise regularly: regular exercise can help reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Avoiding tobacco: tobacco use increases the risk of breast cancer.
Moderate alcohol consumption: excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of breast cancer.

Conclusion

Sausages are a popular food item consumed globally, but their high levels of processing and preservatives may increase the risk of developing breast cancer.

Based on several studies, there is evidence that consuming processed meat, such as sausages, increases the risk of developing breast cancer. Nevertheless, several factors influence the levels of risks associated with sausage consumption, such as the type of sausage, the amount consumed, and the frequency of consumption.

Incorporating healthy lifestyle behaviors such as eating a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, and reducing alcohol consumption may help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.