A new scientific study has found that Americans who cut out meat may lower their chances of getting cancer.
The research was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2025. It analyzed the diets and health records of 79,468 adults from the Adventist Health Study-2.
Participants were followed for more than 10 years. Cancer cases were tracked using official cancer registries.
What the Study Found
The results were striking. People who avoided meat had a 12% lower overall risk of cancer compared to those who ate meat.
Specific cancers showed even stronger differences:
- Colorectal cancer risk was 21% lower.
- Stomach cancer risk dropped by 45%.
- Lymphoma and related cancers were 25% lower.
Vegans, who avoid all animal products, showed the biggest reduction in overall cancer risk compared to other vegetarian groups.
Why This Matters
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. This study suggests that diet can play a major role in prevention. Choosing more plant-based foods and less meat may help protect long-term health.
Researchers also noted that part of the benefit came from lower body weight. Plant-based diets are often linked to a healthier weight, which reduces cancer risk as well.
A Note of Caution
The study was observational. This means it cannot prove that giving up meat directly prevents cancer. Other lifestyle habits may also play a role.
The group studied—Seventh-day Adventists—already live healthier than the general population. So the findings may not fully apply to everyone.
The Bottom Line
This new research adds to growing evidence that eating less meat and more plants is good for health.
While more studies are needed, people who choose vegetarian or vegan diets may be taking a strong step toward lowering their cancer risk.