Fact Check: Does consuming seafood cause leukemia?

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Is seafood a risk factor for cancer?
Seafood consumption has not been conclusively linked to leukemia. However, exposure to certain environmental contaminants may increase leukemia risk; there is no evidence that seafood consumption is a certain risk factor. Research indicates that a diet high in fish may even protect against lymphohematopoietic cancers. Overall, the health benefits of consuming seafood outweigh the risks if low-mercury options are consumed in moderation.

Quick Take

A social media post claims that the consumption of seafood causes cancer. We fact-checked and found this claim to be Mostly False.

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The Claim

A Facebook user shared a reel with the caption, “What is the truth on eating seafood.” The narrator starts the reel by saying, “Stop eating seafood. Seafood causes cancer chemicals, leukemia.”

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Fact Check

What is leukemia?

Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow, and while some studies have investigated the potential links between diet and leukemia risk, the results have been mixed. Moreover, scientists don’t understand the exact causes of leukemia. It is believed to develop from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Does seafood consumption contribute to leukemia?

Not exactly. There is no conclusive evidence to suggest that seafood consumption causes leukemia.

While some studies have suggested that exposure to certain environmental contaminants, such as benzene and certain pesticides, may increase the risk of leukemia, there is currently no evidence to suggest that seafood consumption is a certain risk factor for leukemia.

Moreover, research states that hat a diet high in fish may be protective against lymphohematopoietic cancers, such as leukemia and confirm the reduced risk among the studied fish workers.

However, the overall health benefits of consuming seafood are generally considered to outweigh the risks associated with potential exposure to these contaminants, particularly if consumed in moderation and choosing lower-mercury options.

As with any dietary choices, it is always a good idea to consult a doctor or dietitian if you have concerns about how your diet may be impacting your health.

Does seafood consumption always lead to cancer?

Not exactly. Seafood, like any other food, may have both health benefits and potential risks associated with its consumption. While some studies have suggested that consuming certain types of seafood may be linked to an increased risk of cancer, the evidence is not conclusive, and the overall health benefits of seafood consumption are generally considered to outweigh the risks.

Additionally, the concern with seafood consumption and cancer risk is mainly related to the potential exposure to environmental contaminants, such as arsenic, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins, and methylmercury. These contaminants can accumulate in fish and other seafoods and may pose health risks when consumed in large amounts over a long period of time.

Cancercenter states that if there’s an association between seafood consumption and melanoma (a type of cancer), it’s because of the toxins in the fish, not the fish themselves.

However, it is important to note that not all seafood contains high levels of contaminants, and some types of seafood, such as salmon and sardines, are generally considered to be safe and healthy to eat in moderation. The benefits of consuming seafood, including its high protein content, omega-3 fatty acids, and other important nutrients, such as vitamin D and selenium, are well-established.

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Disclaimer
Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can further read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Dr. Shikha Shiromani
Dr. Shikha Shiromani
A dental surgeon by education and medical writer by profession, Shikha is passionate to bring her knowledge and experience in busting the myths around medicine and health. At THIP, she is involved in researching, fact-checking and answering all kinds of questions related to health.

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Is seafood a risk factor for cancer?
Seafood consumption has not been conclusively linked to leukemia. However, exposure to certain environmental contaminants may increase leukemia risk; there is no evidence that seafood consumption is a certain risk factor. Research indicates that a diet high in fish may even protect against lymphohematopoietic cancers. Overall, the health benefits of consuming seafood outweigh the risks if low-mercury options are consumed in moderation.

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Is seafood a risk factor for cancer?
Seafood consumption has not been conclusively linked to leukemia. However, exposure to certain environmental contaminants may increase leukemia risk; there is no evidence that seafood consumption is a certain risk factor. Research indicates that a diet high in fish may even protect against lymphohematopoietic cancers. Overall, the health benefits of consuming seafood outweigh the risks if low-mercury options are consumed in moderation.

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Is seafood a risk factor for cancer?
Seafood consumption has not been conclusively linked to leukemia. However, exposure to certain environmental contaminants may increase leukemia risk; there is no evidence that seafood consumption is a certain risk factor. Research indicates that a diet high in fish may even protect against lymphohematopoietic cancers. Overall, the health benefits of consuming seafood outweigh the risks if low-mercury options are consumed in moderation.

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Is seafood a risk factor for cancer?
Seafood consumption has not been conclusively linked to leukemia. However, exposure to certain environmental contaminants may increase leukemia risk; there is no evidence that seafood consumption is a certain risk factor. Research indicates that a diet high in fish may even protect against lymphohematopoietic cancers. Overall, the health benefits of consuming seafood outweigh the risks if low-mercury options are consumed in moderation.

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Is seafood a risk factor for cancer?
Seafood consumption has not been conclusively linked to leukemia. However, exposure to certain environmental contaminants may increase leukemia risk; there is no evidence that seafood consumption is a certain risk factor. Research indicates that a diet high in fish may even protect against lymphohematopoietic cancers. Overall, the health benefits of consuming seafood outweigh the risks if low-mercury options are consumed in moderation.

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

More in

Questions
Fact Check
Interviews
Stories
Videos
Is seafood a risk factor for cancer?
Seafood consumption has not been conclusively linked to leukemia. However, exposure to certain environmental contaminants may increase leukemia risk; there is no evidence that seafood consumption is a certain risk factor. Research indicates that a diet high in fish may even protect against lymphohematopoietic cancers. Overall, the health benefits of consuming seafood outweigh the risks if low-mercury options are consumed in moderation.

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Is seafood a risk factor for cancer?
Seafood consumption has not been conclusively linked to leukemia. However, exposure to certain environmental contaminants may increase leukemia risk; there is no evidence that seafood consumption is a certain risk factor. Research indicates that a diet high in fish may even protect against lymphohematopoietic cancers. Overall, the health benefits of consuming seafood outweigh the risks if low-mercury options are consumed in moderation.

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Is seafood a risk factor for cancer?
Seafood consumption has not been conclusively linked to leukemia. However, exposure to certain environmental contaminants may increase leukemia risk; there is no evidence that seafood consumption is a certain risk factor. Research indicates that a diet high in fish may even protect against lymphohematopoietic cancers. Overall, the health benefits of consuming seafood outweigh the risks if low-mercury options are consumed in moderation.

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Is seafood a risk factor for cancer?
Seafood consumption has not been conclusively linked to leukemia. However, exposure to certain environmental contaminants may increase leukemia risk; there is no evidence that seafood consumption is a certain risk factor. Research indicates that a diet high in fish may even protect against lymphohematopoietic cancers. Overall, the health benefits of consuming seafood outweigh the risks if low-mercury options are consumed in moderation.

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

Is seafood a risk factor for cancer?
Seafood consumption has not been conclusively linked to leukemia. However, exposure to certain environmental contaminants may increase leukemia risk; there is no evidence that seafood consumption is a certain risk factor. Research indicates that a diet high in fish may even protect against lymphohematopoietic cancers. Overall, the health benefits of consuming seafood outweigh the risks if low-mercury options are consumed in moderation.

Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.

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