Awareness, attitudes, and eating behaviors of gym users in Saudi Arabia regarding red and processed meat

Background: Consumption of red meat (RM) and processed meat (PM) is associated with the development of colorectal cancer (CRC). Gym users use RM and PM as supplements for their workouts. This puts them at risk of developing cancer. Method: Self-administered questionnaires were used to evaluate the level of awareness, eating behaviors, and potential risks associated with specific foods among gym users in Saudi Arabia from November 2021 to August 2022. Demographic factors were also assessed, the questionnaire was distributed using online platforms including WhatsApp and Twitter. Results: In our study, 41.2% (n=123) and 70.8% (n=211) of the participants rarely consumed RM and PM per week, with the highest consumption of less than 500 g per week 31.9% (n=95) for RM. Only 7.4% (n=22) exceeded 1000 g of weekly RM and PM consumption. Maleness, high protein intake (>200 g/day), supplementary protein intake, good income (>5000 SAR) and being a healthcare worker were associated with higher RM consumption. In contrast, being a dietitian or sports coach was associated with less PM (p=0.045) consumption. The overwhelming majority of subjects 81.2% (n=242) had never heard of nitrites and N-nitroso compounds; knowing about these compounds and their carcinogenic potential was associated with a lower RM consumption (p=0.033). Conclusion: More educational campaigns on RM and PM are needed to address the lack of understanding of their associated risks, especially for male athletes and people with good socio-economic status.