Exploring the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition Study

In a riveting December 2022 update, the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition Study shed light on the intricate relationship between colorectal cancer and various lifestyle factors. Following nearly 300,000 individuals aged 35 to 70, residing across ten European countries, for an average of 7.8 years, the researchers delved into the nexus of colorectal cancer incidence, nutrition, lifestyle, and body weight (BMI) measurements.

Healthy Lifestyle Index and Colorectal Cancer Risk

At the study’s commencement, researchers computed a Healthy Lifestyle Index (HLI) score for each participant, considering smoking status, alcohol consumption, BMI, and physical activity. Astonishingly, a favorable healthy lifestyle score correlated with a remarkable 23% lower risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to an unfavourable score. This implies that individuals who refrained from smoking, consumed minimal alcohol, maintained an ideal body weight, and engaged in regular exercise experienced a significantly reduced risk of colorectal cancer.

Dietary Insights: The Plant-Based Advantage

Adding another layer to the discussion, a November 2022 study published in BMC Medicine revealed that men with the highest intake of plant-based foods enjoyed a 22% lower risk of colon cancer. The study emphasized the role of plant foods in increasing fiber and antioxidants associated with cancer prevention. Building on this, a review in the British Medical Journal in August 2022 linked high consumption of ultra-processed foods to a 29% increased risk of colorectal cancer in men, reinforcing the pivotal role of diet in cancer prevention.

The Significance of 2022 Studies

Collectively, the studies from 2022 underscore the pivotal role of lifestyle and dietary choices in colorectal cancer prevention. With colorectal cancer ranking as the second leading cause of cancer death, these findings hold immense importance. While early detection through methods like colonoscopy is crucial, adopting a colon cancer-prevention diet and lifestyle, as highlighted by these studies, emerges as a proactive
measure to ward off the development of colon cancer.

References:

1. Edorardo B et al. [Changes in lifestyle and risk of colorectal cancer in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition.](https://journals.lww.com/ajg/Abstract/9900/Changes_in_Lifestyle_and_Risk_of_Colorectal_Cancer.550.aspx) Am J Gastroenterol. Dec 2, 2022.
2. Medscape Review of Article: [Medscape Article](https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/986379?src=wnl_recnlnew3_ous_230102_MSCPEDIT_&uac=342474MN&impID=5055634
3. Kim J et al. [Plant-based dietary patterns defined by a priori indices and colorectal cancer risk by sex and race/ethnicity: the Multiethnic Cohort Study.](https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-022-02623-71) BMC Medicine. November 2022.
4. Wang L et al. [Association of ultra-processed food consumption with colorectal cancer risk among adults: Results from three prospective US cohort studies.](https://www.bmj.com/content/378/bmj-2021-068921) BMJ August 2022.

Dr. Meschino