"Ultra-processed foods linked to 45 percent higher cancer risk." It's everywhere—and it's terrifying people. But here's what the headlines missed: the study didn't measure cancer at all, it measured benign polyps. And that 45 percent number? It's a relative risk increase applied to a 4 percent baseline, which means the actual difference is 1.8 percentage points. We break down how one real study in a narrow population of health-conscious nurses got transformed into a universal health scare through relative risk manipulation, self-reported dietary data, and selective reporting that ignored a much larger study finding no effect. Learn the three questions that cut through health headline noise: is it relative or absolute risk? What's the actual baseline? And who was in the study?

A quick note—the opinions and analysis shared on Truth Seekers are our own interpretations of published research and should not be used as medical, financial, or professional advice. Always consult qualified professionals for decisions affecting your health or wellbeing.