It has become fairly common knowledge that the so-called Western Diet can have negative consequences on our health. Now scientists have obtained greater insight into how it might actually increase our risk for colorectal cancer (or colon cancer), the third most common form of cancer in the world.

Using animal models, researchers discovered that a diet that mimicked the Western Diet, i.e., one that was high in fat with only marginal levels of calcium and vitamin D, led to expected increases in weight and fat tissue in the animals. However, they also observed an increase in the expression of a number of genes that, in addition to being responsible for such process as lipid and glutathione metabolism, were also closely associated with immune and inflammatory responses.

There was also an increase in the quantity of macrophages and specific proteins that are also associated with inflammation in the colon. The findings, published in the Journal of Nutrition, point to an overall effect that seems to induce oxidative stress and alteration of the immune response, which may be potential precursors to tumorigenesis and cancer formation.

The Western Diet has long been cited as a potential source for many of the health problems that currently plague this country, including obesity, type-2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. It is characterized by the absence of fiber, fruits, and fresh vegetables, as well as the excessive consumption of meat, fats, and processed carbohydrates (sugar and starch). In fact, up to 30% of heart attacks in the world can be attributed to this diet.

According to the American Heart Association, eating patterns across the globe can be divided into three broad categories:

• Western Diet: fried foods, red meat, excessive fat, salt, and sugar
• Oriental Diet: tofu and soy
• Prudent Diet: fruits and vegetables.

The Prudent Diet was associated with the most health benefits.

Interestingly, when certain countries begin adopting the Western Diet, or when they relocate to this country, they begin to see an increase in the same diet-related health problems as a result, including cancer.

With over 650,000 deaths each year in this country, colorectal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the United States. The tumors begin as polyps that can be detected through colonoscopies. If they are found early enough, the cancer is curable through surgery, highlighting the importance of early detection.

The American Cancer Society encourages people over the age of 50 to consult their physician regarding whether or not they should have a colonoscopy as well as how often. For more information, check out the websites for the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute. If you have any questions or concerns, speak with your physician