Cancer is in effect a combination of diseases. At its core, it is a malfunction of the cells in the human body. Cancer can start in any cell in the body. While cancer tends to be identified by a body part, such as lung cancer or pancreatic cancer, it is the result of abnormal cells reproducing out of control and forming malignant tumors.
The skin, thyroid, pancreas, colon, and breast are all examples of cancer affecting certain organs.

If you have the capacity to donate to cancer research, be sure to only donate to established organizations, such as these examples: MD Anderson, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, National Breast Cancer Foundation, and the American Cancer Society, and by giving Tuesday charities.

Here are some carcinogenic foods that are linked to cancer development:

1. Processed meat
This food includes any meat that has been changed in order to add flavor or prolong its shelf life. It includes processes such as smoking, curing, and salting. Examples include hot dogs, bacon, or deli (lunch) meats. A close examination of labelling is required to identify these meats. Colon and stomach cancer are the two primary risks. Chemical additives to preserve the meat is one reason for concern. The other is the effect of the process of smoking or curing meat. While it is not sure the exact link, it is clear that processed meats should be avoided as much as possible. The best advice is to eat fresh meat.

2. Red meat
Red meat contains nitrates and nitrites. These substances when digested can lead to the formation of chemicals that cause cancer. Some groups do not consider this product to be as dangerous as the meat listed above. They do suggest that ingestion be limited due to the risk factor. The real danger is consumption of large amounts of this food. The alternative is fresh white meat like chicken.

3. Alcohol
The general rule about all types of alcoholic beverages from beer to wine to liquor is fairly simple. The risk rises as the amount of alcohol consumed increases. Certain types of cancer arise from that consumption. They are liver, colon, esophagus, mouth and throat, and larynx. Limit consumption as much as possible to prevent cancer from developing in the areas of the body noted herein.

4. Sugary drinks
Drinks that contain sugar lead to the buildup of fat in the body. Drinks like non diet soda, also raise blood sugar levels. Both of these are known to raise the overall risk of cancer in general. There have also been studies linking sugary drinks to breast cancer. High levels of sugar intake are in general not considered to be healthy for a variety of reasons. An increased risk of cancer is probably enough of a reason to avoid these drinks whenever possible.

5. Fast food
Fast food is simply what the name implies. It is prepared quickly and designed for either take out or eat in the restaurant. It is designed for people who are in a hurry and do not have time to wait for a meal prepared in a kitchen. Processed foods are any food product that has been altered to change its taste or composition. It is the difference between eating an apple or turning it into an apple pie with all the other ingredients. Both of these foods can lead to the production of fat and obesity. Studies have linked being overweight with an increase in the chances of developing cancer.

The common thread through all of the cancer causing foods is the fact that they are not part of a healthy diet. Avoid these foods and seek out healthy alternatives.