Study finds colorectal cancer rates increasing worldwide

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2009-06/acs-sfc060909.php

Public release date: 9-Jun-2009
Contact: David Sampson
American Cancer Society

Westernization identified as a likely culprit

ATLANTA—June 9, 2009—A new study finds colorectal cancer incidence rates for both males and females increased in 27 of 51 countries worldwide between 1983 and 2002, and points to increasing Westernization as being a likely culprit. The rise was seen primarily in economically transitioning countries including Eastern European countries, most parts of Asia, and some countries of South America. The study is the first in a peer-reviewed journal to present colorectal cancer incidence trends across all five continents. It appears in the June 2009 issue of Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers and Prevention. An accompanying editorial says the rise points toward a failed early detection and prevention strategy as well as failure to address lifestyle and dietary challenges of urbanization that affect most of the globe.
.....
The authors say the increase in colorectal cancer in economically transitioning countries may reflect the adoption of western lifestyles and behaviors. Many of the established and suspected modifiable risk factors for colorectal cancer, including obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, a diet high in red or processed meats, and inadequate consumption of fruits and vegetables, are also factors associated with economic development or westernization. The authors say male colorectal cancer incidence rates in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Japan have not only exceeded the peak incidence observed in the United States and other long-standing developed nations, but continue to increase.