Genotoxic effect of meat consumption: A mini review.
Level 3 - non-randomized controlled study
Systematic literature review synthesizing primarily observational studies (30 observational, 5 experimental).
PubMed 33678247 · doi:10.1016/j.mrgentox.2021.503311
What was done
The authors reviewed literature published since 2000 on meat consumption and three biomarkers of human genotoxicity: DNA strand breaks (comet assay), DNA adducts, and micronucleus formation. From 230 screened articles, 35 human studies were included (30 observational and 5 experimental) and classified by design and dietary assessment approach.
What was found
In observational studies (n=30), positive associations between meat intake and DNA damage were reported in 3 of 5 comet assay studies, 13 of 20 DNA adduct studies, and 7 of 9 micronucleus studies. In experimental studies (n=5), positive associations were reported in 1 of 1 comet assay study, 3 of 3 DNA adduct studies, and 0 of 1 micronucleus study. No aggregate numerical effect sizes were provided.
Why it matters
It collates direct human biomarker evidence supporting genotoxic mechanisms for the established epidemiological link between red and processed meat consumption and cancer risk.
Limits
The primary studies were limited by small sample sizes, poor methodological reporting of both meat exposure and genotoxic outcomes, reliance on single biological samples using a single assay, and the probable influence of publication bias.
Cited by
- supports The World Health Organization classified processed meat as a Group 1 carcinogen, indicating it is cancer-causing to humans.