Diet and Lifestyle Factors Linked to Colorectal Cancer Risk in Malaysians

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Dietary Patterns and Lifestyle Factors Associated with the Risk of Colorectal Cancer: A Hospital-Based Case-Control Study among Malaysians
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:

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Author:

Sook Yee Lim, Vaidehi Ulaganathan, Padmini Nallamuthu, Baskaran Gunasekaran, Shamala Salvamani


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: Dietary Patterns and Lifestyle Factors Associated with the Risk of Colorectal Cancer: A Hospital-Based Case-Control Study among Malaysians

Year: 2024 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2024.31.1.18

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Colorectal cancer (CRC) has emerged as a significant public health concern globally, particularly in Malaysia, where incidences are higher among men than women. The study in question aims to explore the relationship between dietary patterns, lifestyle factors, and the risk of CRC in the Malaysian population. This research employs a case-control design, utilizing various dietary assessment methods to uncover associations and highlight modifiable risk factors for CRC.

The Importance of a Vegetable-rich Diet

One of the key findings of this study reveals a strong protective effect associated with high vegetable intake. Participants who consumed a diet rich in vegetables exhibited an 81% reduced risk of developing CRC, indicating the significant role that dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables may play in reducing oxidative stress and promoting gastrointestinal health. The results suggest that not only the quantity of vegetables consumed matters, but the overall dietary pattern leaning towards plant-based foods bears a notable impact on colorectal cancer risk. In contrast, diets high in meat, seafood, and processed foods lacked a significant association with CRC, suggesting the importance of dietary choices in cancer prevention.

Conclusion

The findings of this study underscore the critical influence of dietary habits and lifestyle factors on the risk of colorectal cancer in the Malaysian population. Emphasizing a plant-based diet, particularly one enriched with vegetables, could serve as an essential strategy for CRC prevention. Additionally, adopting healthier lifestyle practices, such as quitting smoking and moderating alcohol consumption, could further mitigate CRC risk. These insights contribute to the growing body of evidence advocating for dietary recommendations and lifestyle changes as effective interventions against colorectal cancer.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What was the primary aim of the study on colorectal cancer?

The study aimed to examine the association between dietary patterns, lifestyle factors, and the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) among the Malaysian population, emphasizing modifiable risk factors.

How many participants were involved in the colorectal cancer study?

The study recruited 100 colorectal cancer patients and 100 cancer-free controls from two selected government hospitals.

What dietary patterns were identified in the study?

The study identified three dietary patterns: high vegetable intake, meat and processed food, and grains and legumes. High vegetable intake was significantly associated with lower CRC risk.

What lifestyle factors affected the risk of colorectal cancer in the study?

Significant lifestyle factors included physical activity levels and smoking habits, where vigorous physical activity reduced CRC risk, while smoking more than 16 cigarettes daily increased the risk.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Diet and Lifestyle Factors Linked to Colorectal Cancer Risk in Malaysians”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Cancer:
Cancer is a disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. It has various types, each classified by the affected body part. The study explored colorectal cancer, a significant health concern globally, especially in regions where lifestyle factors, including diet and physical activity, impact disease risk and outcomes.

2) Study (Studying):
Studying entails the systematic examination of dietary patterns and their associations with disease. The research focused on how varying food intakes correlate with colorectal cancer risk, aiming to generate insights that guide public health recommendations and interventions.

3) Table:
Tables are essential in conveying structured data, presenting information clearly and concisely. In research articles, tables summarize participant characteristics, dietary patterns, and statistical results, facilitating easier comprehension of complex data sets. They help highlight significant findings that support research conclusions and guide further investigations.

4) Food:
Food is a key element in nutrition and health, offering essential nutrients required for bodily functions. The study emphasized the role of dietary patterns, particularly focusing on fruits, vegetables, and their intake in relation to colorectal cancer risk. The analysis highlighted how food choices affect disease outcomes.

5) Activity:
Activity, specifically physical activity, relates to the level of exertion individuals engage in during daily life. The study assessed how different types of physical activities, such as vigorous exercise and leisure activities, correlate with colorectal cancer risk, underscoring the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

6) Meat:
Meat consumption has been scrutinized in dietary studies for its potential link to colorectal cancer. Processed and red meats are often associated with increased cancer risk, prompting investigations into their dietary patterns. The findings help illustrate the balance required in food choices to mitigate health risks.

7) Diet:
Diet encompasses the types and quantities of food consumed by individuals. This study examined how various dietary patterns influence colorectal cancer risk among the Malaysian population. Understanding the correlation between diet and health is vital for developing effective dietary recommendations and public health interventions.

8) Disease:
Diseases are pathological states affecting bodily functions. Colorectal cancer is a prime concern, posing significant health risks. The study sought to identify modifiable risk factors, such as diet and lifestyle habits, that can influence disease prevalence and inform better preventive strategies to combat it effectively.

9) Chan:
Chan refers to one of the study's authors, indicating collaborative efforts in research. Authors contribute various insights and expertise to the study, enhancing the research's credibility and comprehensiveness. Their affiliations and backgrounds can influence perspectives on health and dietary impacts on diseases.

10) Family:
Family history can significantly impact cancer risk, with genetics and shared habits contributing to individual susceptibility. The study considered family medical histories to assess potential hereditary risks for colorectal cancer, showcasing the importance of familial patterns in understanding disease development and prevention strategies.

11) Rules:
Rules in the context of the study refer to guidelines or recommendations surrounding dietary intake and lifestyle choices that mitigate cancer risk. Adhering to established dietary and health recommendations is essential for public health, particularly regarding colorectal cancer prevention and overall well-being.

12) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses understanding of health risks and preventive measures related to colorectal cancer. The study aimed to raise awareness among the population regarding modifiable risk factors, promoting informed dietary decisions, physical activity, and cancer-related education as strategies for reducing disease risk.

13) Male:
Gender differences can influence cancer risk and progression. The study included both male and female participants, analyzing data to determine any sex-specific trends in colorectal cancer incidence, which can help refine prevention strategies that address the unique health needs of different demographics.

14) Calculation:
Calculation refers to the quantitative aspects of research, including sample size determination and statistical analyses. Accurate calculations are essential for ensuring that research findings are valid and reliable, directly impacting the effectiveness of dietary recommendations and strategies to reduce cancer risk.

15) Bleeding:
Bleeding can be a significant symptom associated with colorectal cancer, indicating potential disease presence. In this study, pre-rectal bleeding was noted as a prevalent symptom among patients, serving as an essential marker for early detection and diagnosis, emphasizing the need for increased awareness.

16) Glass:
In the context of the study, glass likely refers to the measurement of alcohol consumption, such as the quantities used for drinks. The assessment of alcohol intake, especially wine or spirits, plays a crucial role in understanding its impact on colorectal cancer risk.

17) Annal:
Annal could refer to a reference or study from a journal, typically relating to historical records of research findings. Understanding previous annal studies helps contextualize current research, allowing for better comprehension of the evolving landscape of colorectal cancer studies and dietary patterns.

18) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds found in plants that confer health benefits, including anti-cancer properties. The study explored their role in reducing colorectal cancer risk through dietary intake of fruits and vegetables, emphasizing the significance of incorporating phytochemical-rich foods into a balanced diet.

19) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the science of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. The study underscores the interplay between dietary patterns, lifestyle factors, and colorectal cancer, contributing to the broader understanding of preventive medicine aimed at reducing the incidence and mortality associated with cancer.

20) Liquor:
Liquor relates to alcoholic beverages and their consumption patterns. The study investigated the impact of alcohol intake, including liquor, on colorectal cancer risk, highlighting the significant relationship between alcohol consumption duration and disease risk, raising awareness of moderation and health implications.

21) Wine:
Wine is a specific type of alcoholic beverage often scrutinized for its health effects. The study assessed wine consumption in relation to colorectal cancer, providing insights into how different types of alcoholic beverages influence cancer risk, emphasizing the importance of dietary moderation.

22) Line:
In research, line can denote guidelines or pathways for further investigation, including dietary patterns and health implications. The study examined lines of inquiry into how specific food and lifestyle choices correlate with colorectal cancer risk, potentially informing future research directions.

23) Perception:
Perception involves individual understanding and beliefs about health risks and dietary influences. The study aimed to alter public perception regarding colorectal cancer, highlighting the importance of promoting knowledge around diet and lifestyle changes to facilitate better health outcomes and awareness.

24) Developing:
Developing new dietary recommendations based on research findings is crucial for public health. The study sought to create actionable strategies to address colorectal cancer risk through nutrition and lifestyle changes, ultimately guiding health professionals in promoting healthier choices among populations.

25) Science (Scientific):
Science is the foundation of research and understanding health-related phenomena. This study adhered to scientific principles to uncover the relationship between dietary intake, lifestyle factors, and colorectal cancer risk, aiming to provide insights into preventive measures and inform health guidelines.

26) Education:
Education informs individuals about health and wellness, particularly regarding risk factors for diseases like colorectal cancer. The study emphasized the importance of raising awareness and educating the public on dietary choices as a key component in reducing cancer incidence and promoting a healthier lifestyle.

27) Toxicity:
Toxicity refers to the harmful effects substances may have on health. The study evaluated how certain dietary patterns, including high consumption of processed foods or excessive alcohol, may pose toxic risks that could elevate colorectal cancer incidence, underscoring the necessity of informed dietary choices.

28) Indian:
Indian refers to one of the ethnic groups considered in the study of colorectal cancer risk in Malaysia. Understanding nutritional patterns and health behaviors across diverse ethnic groups, including Indians, can inform effective public health strategies tailored to each group's unique dietary habits.

29) Kamsa (Kamsha):
Kamsa may refer to researchers or entities involved in the study. Collaboration between researchers with varying backgrounds enriches the research findings, offering diverse perspectives that enhance the understanding of colorectal cancer's relationship with diet and lifestyle within different populations.

30) Joshi (Josi):
Joshi indicates a possible contributor to the research, showcasing the role of collaborative efforts in addressing complex health issues like colorectal cancer. The involvement of multiple researchers enriches the data analysis and interpretations drawn from the study's findings.

31) Cina:
China represents a geographical context where dietary patterns and cancer risk have been studied. The research in this area enriches global understanding of colorectal cancer and highlights how variations in diet, culture, and lifestyle across regions impact health outcomes.

32) Jacob:
Jacob refers to an individual involved in research or potentially a contributor to the study. Researchers play a vital role in exploring the associations between diet, lifestyle, and disease, enhancing community knowledge and guiding public health policy.

33) Sah:
Shah might denote an author or contributor in the study's research team. Collaborative efforts that include diverse authors strengthen the study's depth, offering varied insights into the impact of dietary patterns and lifestyle choices on colorectal cancer risk.

34) Fish:
Fish consumption is an important dietary factor examined in relation to colorectal cancer. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fish may provide health benefits; however, the study assessed its role in overall dietary patterns to establish whether it contributes to cancer risk or prevention.

35) Pur:
Poor dietary choices are often linked to increased health risks, including colorectal cancer. The study seeks to identify associations between less nutritious diets and cancer prevalence, advocating for improved dietary practices to enhance community health and reduce the incidence of diseases.

36) Accumulation (Accumulating, Accumulate):
Accumulation refers to the buildup of dietary factors, such as the intake of harmful substances like alcohol or processed meats, which may elevate colorectal cancer risk. The study involved assessing how increased consumption over time affects health outcomes.

37) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the section in research where findings are interpreted and implications are laid out. This study's discussion links dietary patterns and lifestyle factors to colorectal cancer risk, providing context for the results and suggesting actionable recommendations for public health.

38) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burning may refer to metabolic processes, such as energy expenditure during physical activity. The study explored the relationship between metabolic rates and colorectal cancer risk by assessing physical activity levels among participants to determine their impact on health.

39) Reason:
Reason relates to the justification for the study, identifying the crucial link between dietary habits and colorectal cancer risk. Understanding the reasoning behind health behaviors informs effective communication strategies aimed at promoting healthier lifestyle choices to mitigate disease risk.

40) Animal:
Animal studies often supplement research findings by providing insights into biological mechanisms related to dietary factors and cancer risk. The study incorporated comparisons with previous research to support the exploration of how dietary patterns influence colorectal cancer outcomes.

41) Salt (Salty):
Salt, as a dietary component, plays multiple roles in health and disease. The study examined salt and salted food consumption in relation to colorectal cancer risk, exploring how dietary choices impact long-term health outcomes while encouraging balanced intake.

42) Putra:
Putra likely refers to Universiti Putra Malaysia, associated with the research study. Academic institutions play a pivotal role in conducting health research, facilitating the exploration of critical public health issues like cancer and dietary patterns.

43) Sugar:
Sugar consumption is a critical factor in dietary studies evaluating health risks. The study explored the role of sugary foods in conjunction with overall diet quality, aiming to assess their impacts on colorectal cancer risk and inform dietary guidelines.

44) Death:
Death signifies the ultimate outcome of severe diseases like colorectal cancer if preventive measures are not implemented. The study emphasizes the importance of dietary and lifestyle changes to lower mortality risk associated with colorectal cancer, advocating for better health practices.

45) Sign:
Sign indicates symptoms or markers observed in colorectal cancer patients. This study focused on identifying signs of the disease, like pre-rectal bleeding, to enhance early detection strategies, emphasizing the need for public education on health-related warning signs.

46) Rich (Rch):
Rich refers to the presence of beneficial nutrients or compounds in foods, contributing to health. The study highlighted how a diet rich in fruits and vegetables correlates with decreased colorectal cancer risk, demonstrating the importance of nutrient-dense food choices.

47) Post:
Post signifies the period following disease onset or intervention. The study's post-evaluation of participants examined dietary patterns and lifestyle changes made after colorectal cancer diagnosis, assessing the impact of such changes on health and recovery.

48) Life:
Life encompasses the overall lifestyle and habits affecting health. The study focused on dietary and physical activity patterns as integral aspects of healthy living that help reduce colorectal cancer risk, promoting holistic approaches to lifestyle changes for better health outcomes.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Diet and Lifestyle Factors Linked to Colorectal Cancer Risk in Malaysians’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

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Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.

Ye, Or, Mushroom, External knowledge, Vegetable diet, Married.

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