Carcinogenic Substances in Junk Food

(412 Words)
Most people know that junk food is not good for them, however they may not realize that there are actually carcinogenic substances in junk food. Food that is unhealthy can cause cancer in both direct and indirect ways, and it is important to understand the risks of junk food so that one may make wise dietary decisions.
According to the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health, the cancer-causing Heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) occur when meat is quickly cooked under very high temperatures. This occurs in junk food such as fried meats like fried chicken and fried fish. When the meat is pan fried or cooked over an open flame, these substances are formed. They can make changes to DNA that increase the risk of cancer. The types of cancer that may be more likely to occur include pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer and prostate cancer.
Acrylamide is a carcinogen that can occur in junk food. According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, this substance can be found in fried and starchy foods. The study showed its presence in junk food such as snack chips. French fries had the most acrylamide in the study with up to 82 micrograms. Clark University research professor Dale Hattis estimated that thousands of cancers a year were precipitated by acrylamide. Taco shells also contained some of the carcinogen.
Junk food also causes cancer in many indirect ways. According to the Rhode Island Cancer Council, Inc., studies have shown that high fat diets can increase the risk of certain types of cancer, including breast cancer. Professor Paul Kleihues, director of the WHO International Agency for Research on Cancer, has stated that breast, prostate and colon cancer are associated with diet and that high fat diets should be avoided. Since many types of junk food are high in fat, they can promote cancer. In addition, there are many foods that fight against cancer such as fruits and vegetables. When you waste your calories on junk food, you are going to eat less of these healthier foods, thereby increasing your chances of cancer in that way.
Junk food contributes to many different types of cancer with known carcinogens. Although the FDA and other world government agencies are investigating these, it is important for individuals to understand their own risks. Both children and adults should eat as little junk food as possible in order to lower their risks of this serious condition.