Perspective, J Food Nutr Disor Vol: 12 Issue: 1
Impact of Malnutrition on Global Health
David Jose*
Department of Nutrition cancer, Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
*Corresponding Author: David Jose
Department of Nutrition cancer, Allegheny
General Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
E-mail: Josedavid1@gmail.com
Received date: 22 February, 2023, Manuscript No. JFND-23-95087;
Editor assigned date: 27 February, 2023, Pre QC No. JFND-23-95087(PQ);
Reviewed date: 15 March, 2023, QC No. JFND-23-95087;
Revised date: 22 March, 2023, Manuscript No: JFND-23-95087(R);
Published date: 29 March, 2023, DOI: 10.35248/ 2324-9323.100342
Citation: Jose D (2023) Trends, Risk Factors of Colon Cancer Epidemiology and Possible Causation . J Food Nutr Disor 12:1.
Keywords: Food
Description
Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a malignant tumor that develops in the large intestine, which includes the colon and rectum. It is the third most common cancer globally, with an estimated 1.9 million new cases and 935,000 deaths reported in 2020. Colon cancer epidemiology has been extensively studied to understand the trends and possible causation of this disease.
The incidence of colon cancer varies widely across the world, with the highest rates observed in developed countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and North America. In contrast, the lowest rates are reported in Africa and parts of Asia, including India and China. The incidence of colon cancer is also higher in men than women, and the risk increases with age. The exact cause of colon cancer is still unknown, but several risk factors have been identified that can increase the likelihood of developing this disease.
Risk factors associated with colon cancer
Age: The risk of developing colon cancer increases significantly after the age of 50, with most cases being diagnosed in individuals over 60 years of age.
Family history: Individuals with a family history of colon cancer or colorectal polyps have an increased risk of developing this disease. The risk is even higher if the family member was diagnosed at a young age or if multiple family members are affected.
Lifestyle factors: Several lifestyle factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of colon cancer.
Diet: A diet high in red and processed meats, saturated fats, and low in fiber and fruits and vegetables can increase the risk of colon cancer.
Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, type 2 diabetes, and inherited syndromes such as Lynch syndrome can increase the risk of colon cancer.
Several epidemiological studies have shown that the incidence of colon cancer has been steadily increasing in many developed countries. In contrast, the incidence rates in developing countries remain low but are increasing at a faster pace. The reasons for this trend are not entirely clear, but several factors may contribute to this increase. One possible explanation is the changing lifestyle and dietary habits, which have led to an increase in the prevalence of risk factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet. Another factor could be the aging population, as the risk of colon cancer increases with age. The increasing use of screening tests such as colonoscopy and Fecal Occult Blood Tests (FOBT) may also contribute to the increase in incidence rates by detecting more cases of early-stage colon cancer that would have otherwise gone undiagnosed.
Colon cancer is a significant public health concern worldwide, with a high incidence and mortality rate. While the exact cause of colon cancer is not entirely known, several risk factors have been identified that can increase the likelihood of developing this disease. Understanding the epidemiology and possible causation of colon cancer is important to developing effective prevention and treatment strategies that can help reduce the burden of this disease. Through lifestyle modifications, early detection, and appropriate medical interventions, we can work towards reducing the incidence and mortality rates of colon cancer globally.
