Association between frequency of processed and ultraprocessed food consumption with lifestyle habits score for cancer prevention among adults in Malaysia

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer is the second leading cause of mortality globally. Processed and ultra-processed foods are reported to be high in energy, sugar, and unhealthy fats, while low in fibre, vitamins and minerals, that can increase the risk of cancer. Methods: A cross-sectional study involving adults aged 18-59 years was conducted in Peninsular Malaysia (n=122). Sociodemographic data were obtained through a questionnaire and lifestyle habits score for cancer prevention was assessed using MyGenomSihat©. The food frequency questionnaire used had four groups (i.e., unprocessed or minimally processed foods, processed culinary ingredients, processed foods, and ultra-processed foods) containing 53 food items to evaluate the frequency of food consumption. All data obtained were self-reported by the participants. Results: Mean age was 27.6±8.1 years with a majority (76.2%) having household income of less than <RM4,850. The results from MyGenomSihat© demonstrated that majority (53.3%) of subjects had average scores between 41-85, which is considered to be satisfactory lifestyle habits. Most Malaysian adults ate ultra-processed foods (32.9%) compared to processed foods (4.9%). However, there were no significant correlations between consumption of both processed and ultraprocessed food groups and lifestyle habits score for cancer prevention (r=-0.072, p=0.089 and r=-0.008, p=0.992, respectively). Conclusion: Most subjects had satisfactory lifestyle habits scores for cancer prevention. Interventions are needed to improve lifestyle habits among the targeted population for cancer prevention.