Malaysia is soon to have more under- 50 colon cancer cases like the richest nations – US, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and South Korea. However, Malaysia is not the only middle-income country that has this trajectory. Studies have shown from 2013 – 2017, colon cancer in young people went up in 27 out of 50 countries worldwide. One of the glaring reasons is the rising uptake of ultra-processed foods.
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) contain additives and ingredients rarely used in home cooking, such as preservatives, emulsifiers, and artificial flavours, giving them a long shelf life. Common examples include ice cream, hot dogs, chips, mass-produced bread, cereals, biscuits, and sweetened beverages.
Malaysians, especially those from low-income households, consume high amounts of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), with 89.5% not meeting daily fruit and vegetable intake and over half regularly consuming sugary drinks and commercially baked goods. A 2024 study found that 43% of commercially produced complementary foods (CPCF) in Malaysia are ultra-processed, often containing high sugar, sodium, and unapproved additives. This high UPF consumption is likely driven by its widespread availability, our busy lifestyles, and convenience.
UPFs have been found to be associated with 30 health conditions including cancer particularly colorectal cancer due to the increased inflammation of the cells. More research on UPFs and cancer needs to be done to prove causation. However, it is certain that UPFs directly cause obesity and an increase in waist circumference that ultimately increases the risk of colorectal cancer. With nearly 50% of Malaysians overweight, we fear a looming cancer crisis, and the numbers may soon spike.
The best way to reduce our cancer risk is to keep it simple. Since the under-50 colorectal cases are rising, we should start at home by consuming simple foods such as fruits, vegetables, fatty fish, nuts, seeds and avoiding UPFs. These healthier options can reduce inflammation that over time leads to cancer. We should also encourage ourselves to be more physically active and more proactive in looking after our health. Prevention is better than cure!
