Dr Christine Lai, a specialist surgeon practising in the field of breast cancer and endocrine surgery in Australia, highlighted these two foods 'that increase breast cancer risk'.
'7% higher risk of breast cancer one drink per day'
Dr Lai, who 'has spent the last 20 years treating women with breast cancer', took to Instagram on October 13, and said, "Research often flags: processed meats (bacon, ham, sausages) - 9 percent higher risk of breast cancer in post menopausal women; 18 percent higher risk of bowel cancer for every 50 gram a day (about 2 slices of bacon). Alcohol - 7 percent higher risk of breast cancer one drink per day."
Other foods and patterns linked to cancer riskSharing that making small, realistic shifts, like adding more plants, cooking from scratch, and finding balance was key, she added, "Other foods and patterns linked to cancer risk (beyond breast cancer): more than 700 g of red meat per week - increased bowel cancer risk; each extra 50 gram/day of processed meat raises it by ~18 percent. Ultra-processed foods (instant noodles, fast foods, sugary cereals) - associated with higher overall cancer risk due to additives, low fibre, and excess sodium. Sugary drinks contribute to weight gain and obesity, one of the strongest modifiable risk factors for several cancers. This isn't about cutting everything out. It's about making small, realistic shifts, such as adding more plants, cooking from scratch, and finding balance."

Many women are unaware of their breast cancer risk. Medanta hospital oncologist Dr Ashok Vaid has explained who is most vulnerable and shares steps to reduce risk. Click here to know what he said in an October 31 interview with HT Lifestyle.