A landmark INSERM study highlights risks beyond cancer for deli meats, already classified as carcinogenic (Group 1) by the WHO. Research on 971 participants across 2003-2007 and 2011-2013 periods shows that sausages, ham, rillettes, and similar products can aggravate asthma symptoms, urging limited consumption.
The study, involving participants averaging 43 years old, associates eating deli meats at least 4 times weekly with intensified asthma. High nitrite levels contribute to respiratory tract inflammation, alongside elevated salt and saturated fats. Budget-friendly products pose higher risks. Notably, 20% of those consuming 1-3 servings weekly reported shortness of breath and heightened symptoms, while even 1 serving per week affected 14% (symptoms including dry cough, wheezing, chest tightness, or suffocation sensation).
Adjusting for factors like age and sex, heavy consumers faced a 76% higher risk of asthma symptoms versus light consumers. Lead researcher Dr. Zhen Li states, "These findings expand on the deleterious effects of deli meats on health," recommending public health campaigns to curb intake. General practitioner and epidemiologist Hélène Lelong notes in Le Figaro that asthma treatments may influence symptom progression, acting as a potential confounder.
