Lucie Morris-Marr, a well-regarded investigative journalist and author of Processed, faced a life-altering moment when she was diagnosed with stage-four bowel cancer at the height of her career. Speaking to Nine to Noon, she recalled the shock of the diagnosis: “I felt fit and healthy… and then all of it got cancelled. I felt like my identity had been cancelled.” What began as a personal health crisis quickly transformed into a mission to understand the factors that may have contributed to her illness.

During treatment, Lucie delved into research on bowel cancer and was stunned to learn that the World Health Organization (WHO) classifies processed meats as Group 1 carcinogens, the same category as tobacco and alcohol. This revelation prompted her to critically evaluate her own dietary habits and the hidden risks in everyday foods.

Though she never considered herself a heavy meat eater, Lucie realized that processed meats had been a frequent part of her diet. “I liked prosciutto on melon, sausages at Bunnings, bacon on Christmas, and pepperoni pizza on Fridays,” she admitted. While she does not claim processed meats directly caused her cancer, she views them as a likely suspect. Her reaction to the discovery? “Angry,” she said, reflecting both on her own exposure and the broader lack of public awareness.

Lucie’s experience highlights a significant gap in public health messaging. “Where were the warning labels? Where were the health campaigns?” she asked. She stresses that her goal isn’t to create fear, but to ensure people are informed about the risks they may unknowingly take. In her view, better communication could empower individuals to make safer dietary choices.

Scientific research supports her concerns. The WHO notes that consuming just 50 grams of processed meat per day—roughly two slices of bacon—can increase the risk of bowel cancer by 18%. Processed meats contain nitrates and nitrites, which may become harmful during cooking or digestion. Many of these foods are also high in salt and saturated fats, compounding risks for heart disease and high blood pressure.

Now, Lucie channels her personal struggle into public advocacy. Through her book and speaking engagements, she encourages others to critically assess their diets and understand the potential long-term consequences of processed meat consumption. Her mission is clear: informed choices can save lives, and raising awareness may help prevent illnesses that too many people still face unknowingly.