Report: Americans Can Prevent Thousands of Colorectal Cancer Cases Each Year

An expert panel of the World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research just released a report confirming that colorectal cancer is linked to diet. After a systematic review of the evidence, this update to a previous report shows that Americans should limit red meat to around 17 oz. (cooked weight) per week and avoid processed meat. This would be approximately five or six medium portions. The report also concluded that the evidence is even stronger that dietary fiber like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and beans reduce the risk of bowel cancer.

The evidence for the protective effect of physical activity remains convincing, as well as the evidence that being overweight or obese increases the risk for colorectal cancer.

What should you do?

• Eat more whole grains, beans, vegetables, and fruit and eat less processed meat. (most deli meats, hot dogs, bacon, sausage, beef jerky, or other foods containing sodium nitrite)
• Get at least 30 minutes of physical activity.
• Move toward a healthier weight.

More recommendations and the report can be found here.