A study published in The Lancet Oncology shows that bowel cancer is increasing among younger people worldwide, with some of the largest increases observed in England.
Approximately 120 people are diagnosed with the disease daily in the United Kingdom, warns Bowel Cancer UK. The disease is the fourth most common cancer in the UK.
Whilst some causes are genetic and cannot be controlled by individuals, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) states that 54% of all cases could be prevented through dietary and lifestyle changes.
Nearly half (47%) of these relate to diet. The breakdown of this percentage follows:
13% of risk attributed to processed or red meat consumption
A review of studies published in Annals of Oncology found that the risk of developing bowel cancer increases by 22% for every 100 grams of red meat consumed daily, whilst it increases by 18% for every 50 grams.
Consumption of red and processed meat can increase risk by 13% overall, warns Bowel Cancer UK.
Some examples of processed meat include:
- sausages, bacon and ham
- deli meats such as salami
- tinned meat such as corned beef
- sliced meat (including those made from chicken and turkey) and pâté
Red meat includes lamb, beef, mutton, pork, venison and veal.
The UKHSA states that reducing red and processed meat consumption to less than 70 grams per day may be beneficial if current consumption exceeds this limit.
28% of risk linked to insufficient fibre intake
Most adults need 30 grams of fibre daily, but 90% of us do not reach this amount. Instead, we consume an average of 20 grams, according to the NHS.
A 2011 study found that for every 10 grams of fibre consumed daily, the risk of developing bowel cancer may be reduced by 10%.
Bowel Cancer UK reports that insufficient intake of this nutrient can increase bowel cancer risk by up to 28%.
Wholegrain versions of bread, rice and pasta contain more fibre than their white counterparts, whilst fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and wholegrain cereals (such as oats, bulgur and even popcorn) can also help us achieve our fibre intake goals.
6% of risk linked to excessive alcohol consumption
Some meta-analyses of cancer research have found that bowel cancer risk increases by 4% for every two units of alcohol per day, by 17% for those drinking up to six units daily and by 33% for those drinking more than six units. Bowel Cancer UK estimates this percentage at 6% overall.
There are other changes linked to increased bowel cancer risk. According to the UKHSA, 54% of bowel cancer risk comes from lifestyle-related factors.
(information from huffingtonpost.gr)
