Intake of ultra-processed foods and accelerated epigenetic aging of colorectal tissues

Ultra-processed food (UPF) intake is associated with colorectal cancer (CRC) risk and may contribute to rising early-onset CRC incidence, although underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We examined associations between UPF and accelerated epigenetic aging (AgeAccel) in normal colorectal tissues among 106 participants (73 African American (AA); 33 European American) in the Cleveland Colon Screening and Risk Factors Study (2012-2018). UPF intake was assessed using a Food Frequency Questionnaire and classified according to the NOVA system. AgeAccel was derived from DNA methylation assays of colorectal biopsies. Linear mixed-effects regression models adjusted for energy intake, race, and colorectal location assessed associations. Higher UPF intake was significantly associated with increased AgeAccel in overall colorectum (P = 6.87x10-03; β = 0.061; standard error=0.028), corresponding to a + 1.41-year difference between the highest and lowest quartiles. Associations were significant in the right colon and among AA participants (P < 0.05). These findings suggest a potential mechanistic link between UPF intake and CRC risk.