Calcium and colorectal cancer: some questions remain.

Abstract

There is convincing laboratory evidence that calcium reduces the risk of colorectal cancer, but previous epidemiologic studies have reported somewhat inconsistent results. A recent large prospective study confirms that higher calcium intake is associated with a modestly reduced risk of distal colorectal cancer. There was little additional risk reduction associated with consumers of more than 700 mg calcium/day. This study also suggests that certain subgroups, such as males, smokers, and people who consume low levels of vitamin D, may be at differential risk. Because colon cancer is a common disease, even a modest decrease in risk has the potential for preventing a substantial number of cases.

• Authors: Victoria Chia, Polly A Newcomb
• Journal: Nutrition reviews (Nutr Rev) Vol. 62 Issue 3 Pg. 115-20 (Mar 2004) ISSN: 0029-6643 [Print] United States
• PMID: 15098858 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Calcium, Dietary
• Vitamin D

Topics

• Calcium, Dietary (administration & dosage)
• Colorectal Neoplasms (prevention & control)
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Risk Factors
• Vitamin D (administration & dosage)