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Fact Finder Tool

Discover insights, research, and information to help you navigate cancer-related topics with confidence.

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CLAIM: Grilling meat causes cancer

Diet & nutrition
Definitely or most likely true

What you may have heard Eating charred or burnt meat can increase your risk of cancer. What science tells us Charring or burning meat, poultry, or fish over high temperatures causes heterocyclic amines (HCAs) to form. Meat that is cooked above 300 ºF and for a long period of time causes HCAs to form (NCI).…

Hanbrugers (showing grill marks) on grill

CLAIM: Processed meats can increase the risk of cancer.

Diet & nutrition
Definitely or most likely true

What you may have heard Consumption of processed meats can increase the risk of cancer. What science tells us Processed meat has been changed through curing, smoking, salting, fermentation, or other processes to help preserve it or enhance flavor. Processed meats are most commonly made of pork or beef, such as bacon, sausage, ham, bologna,…

Hot dog in a bun with ketchup and mustard.

CLAIM: Red meat causes cancer

Diet & nutrition
Definitely or most likely true

What you may have heard High red meat consumption increases the risk of developing cancer. What science tells us In 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) concluded that red meat is a group 2A carcinogen, meaning that it has the potential to cause cancer in humans, based on evidence for increased risk…

Photo of a cooked steak on a cutting board.