Study on Potatoes and Pancreatic Cancer

Overview of Research

A recent study published in the British Journal of Nutrition explored the potential connection between potato consumption and pancreatic cancer. In 2008, around 227,000 individuals worldwide were diagnosed with this type of cancer. Factors contributing to pancreatic cancer include smoking, genetics, and dietary choices. Foods with high glycemic indices, which can lead to rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, may be linked to various cancers. Potatoes are among the foods with a high glycemic index.

Contrasting Research Findings

While certain studies indicate a correlation between potato consumption and various cancers, others suggest that potatoes may offer protective benefits. This study focused specifically on the relationship between potatoes and pancreatic cancer.

HELGA Study Participants

The researchers utilized data from the Norwegian Women and Cancer Study, the Danish Diet, Cancer and Health Study, and the Northern Sweden Health and Disease Study Cohort, collectively known as the HELGA study, which included 119,968 participants aged 30 to 64. Participants completed food frequency questionnaires to report their potato consumption and cooking methods, although the Norwegian study did not include cooking methods. Some participants were excluded due to incomplete data, inaccurate reporting, or failure to participate in follow-up assessments.

Demographics and Findings

Of the 114,240 participants analyzed, 66.1% were women, with the majority aged around 52 to 53 years. During the follow-up period, only 221 participants were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The study found a correlation between potato consumption, lower education levels, and higher intake of fat and processed meats, alongside an increased risk of pancreatic cancer; however, this risk was not statistically significant.

Gender-Specific Analysis

When examining the data by sex, an increased risk of cancer associated with higher potato consumption was observed only among women. Participants across all levels of potato consumption smoked and consumed fruits and vegetables at similar rates.

Conclusion of the Study

Due to the rarity of pancreatic cancer, the number of diagnoses among participants was low, even with a large sample size. Consequently, the researchers concluded that there is insufficient evidence to support the notion that potato consumption increases the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Reference

Asil, L.A., Braaten, T., Olsen, A., Tjønneland, A., Overvad, K., Nilsson, L.M.,…Skeie, G. (2018). Potato consumption and risk of pancreatic cancer in the HELGA cohort. British Journal of Nutrition, 119, 1408-1415. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0007114518000788