Common Food Preservatives Linked to Increased Cancer Risk, Study Finds

A large French study published on January 27, 2026, by BMJ Group, revealed a potential link between common food preservatives and a modestly higher risk of cancer. The decade-long study, tracking over 100,000 people, found that higher consumption of certain preservatives commonly found in processed foods and drinks was associated with increased cancer risks.

While many preservatives showed no association, several widely used ones, including potassium sorbate, sulfites, sodium nitrite, and potassium nitrate, were tied to increased risks of overall cancer and specific types such as breast and prostate cancer, according to the study. The findings prompt new calls to rethink what is added to our diets.

Obesity and High Blood Pressure May Directly Cause Dementia, Research Suggests

In other health news, a new genetic study published on January 26, 2026, by The Endocrine Society, suggests that obesity and high blood pressure may play a direct role in causing dementia, not just increasing the risk. Researchers analyzed data from large populations in Denmark and the U.K. and found strong evidence that higher body weight can damage brain health over time, especially when it leads to elevated blood pressure.

Much of the dementia risk appeared to be tied to vascular damage in the brain, which affects blood flow and cognitive function. The findings highlight weight and blood pressure control as potentially powerful tools for preventing dementia before symptoms appear.

U.S. Foreign Policy Under Scrutiny

Meanwhile, U.S. foreign policy in Latin America is facing scrutiny. According to Jonathan M. Katz, author of "Gangsters of Capitalism: Smedley Butler, the Marines, and the Making and Breaking of Americas Empire," interfering in Latin American affairs is "Washington's bread and butter." This statement comes amid ongoing political tensions and protests in Venezuela, as reported by Foreign Policy on January 26, 2026.

Marc Lynch, professor of political science and international affairs at George Washington University, noted in Foreign Policy on January 26, 2026, that the U.S. response to protests evokes repressive regimes around the world.

Efforts to Save Endangered Trees

In environmental news, efforts are underway to protect endangered trees on the Yemeni island of Socotra. Mohammed Amar, the Indigenous on-site manager of the Socotra endangered-tree project, which is mainly funded by the Franklinia Foundation in Geneva, Switzerland, is working to save the world’s last dragons blood tree forest, along with other threatened plants like cucumber trees and frankincense trees, according to Nature News.

Amar stated that he has been working with scientists from Mendel University in Brno, Czech Republic, and other European universities for 25 years, acting as the connection between the scientists, Indigenous communities, and local authorities. He also scouts out areas for habitat restoration and works with remote communities to find ways to protect these endangered species.