A recent study premiered in Cure Magazine and detailed that among more than 1200 people who developed colorectal cancer and an equal number who did not, researchers found that those with the highest levels of vitamin D in their blood had a nearly 40 percent reduced risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to those with the lowest levels. These findings from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) confirm previous findings from smaller studies conducted largely among North American populations. The EPIC findings “support a role for vitamin D” in the causes of colorectal cancer according to EPIC investigator Dr. Mazda Jenab of the International Agency for Research on Cancer in Lyon, France. “But this has to be balanced with caution regarding the potential toxic effects of too much vitamin D and the fact that very little is known about the association of vitamin D with either increased or reduced risk of other cancers,” Jenab said. There is currently no absolute consensus on optimal vitamin D levels. Some recent studies have suggested that, for colon cancer prevention, blood vitamin D levels should be maintained at a mid-level range — 50 nanomoles per liter or higher.
People can lower their risk of getting colorectal cancer by taking charge of the risk factors that they can control, such as diet and exercise. It is important to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grain foods and to limit intake of high-fat foods. Getting enough exercise is also important. The American Cancer Society recommends at least 30 minutes of physical activity on five or more days of the week. Forty-five to 60 minutes of exercise on five or more days of the week is even better. Avoiding too much alcohol may also help lower your risk of colorectal cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends no more than one drink per day for women or two per day for men.
To learn more about Colorectal Cancer, weSPARK in Santa Clarita will be hosting the SCV Chamber of Commerce Health Sub-Committee Lecture on Colorectal Awareness on Wednesday, March 10 at 6 p.m. Dr. Richard Kuritzkes will be speaking about diagnosis and will be available for answering questions.
If you are interesting in attending this free event, please contact Lenora at weSPARK at 661-288-2322. Seating is limited.