Red Meat Carcinogens and Their Role in Colorectal Cancer Development
1 “Vasile Goldiș” Western University of Arad, Liviu Rebreanu Str., No. 86, 310045 Arad, Romania
* Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Received: 26 Jun 2025 / Published: 12 Mar 2025
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Epidemiological studies have consistently inferred a correlation between high red meat consumption and an increased risk of CRC. This review examines the association between red meat intake and CRC development, emphasizing the role of dietary patterns, cooking methods, and processing techniques. Moreover, carcinogenic compounds such as heterocyclic amines (HCAs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and Nnitroso compounds (NOCs) are formed during high-temperature cooking and processing of red meat, potentially contributing to colorectal carcinogenesis. Furthermore, genetic susceptibility and metabolic variations influence individual risk factors. Based on recent findings, dietary recommendations suggest limiting red and processed meat consumption while increasing fiber-rich foods to mitigate CRC risk. This article provides an overview of current evidence, underlying biochemical mechanisms that may impact CRC incidence through dietary modifications.
Keywords: colorectal cancer; red meat; heterocyclic amines; polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons; N-nitroso compounds; carcinogenesis; nutrition
OPEN ACCESS
This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution
License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium,
provided the original work is properly cited. (CC BY 4.0).
CITE
Căpraru, A.-M.; Belean, M.; Dărăban, A.; Crișan, A.; Roșu, M.; Neamțu, C.; Ardelean, S. Red Meat Carcinogens and Their Role in Colorectal Cancer Development. jept 2025, 1, 1.
Căpraru A-M, Belean M, Dărăban A, Crișan A, Roșu M, Neamțu C, Ardelean S. Red Meat Carcinogens and Their Role in Colorectal Cancer Development. Journal of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology. 2025; 1(1):1.
Căpraru, Anca-Maria; Belean, Marius; Dărăban, Adriana; Crișan, Adrian; Roșu, Mihai; Neamțu, Carmen; Ardelean, Simona. 2025. "Red Meat Carcinogens and Their Role in Colorectal Cancer Development." jept 1, no. 1: 1.
Not implemented
SHARE
