LONDON, Apr 6, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- Making five lifestyle changes could
substantially reduce the rate of colorectal cancer in Britain -- particularly
among men -- researchers said.
Donald Maxwell Parkin of Cancer Research United Kingdom Centre for Epidemiology,
Mathematics, and Statistics in London said the researchers sought to estimate
how recommended lifestyle changes could affect the predicted incidence of
colorectal cancer in the United Kingdom during the next 24 years.
Based on published studies, the researchers made projections to estimate how
lifestyle changes would affect future rates of colorectal cancer. They suggest:
-- No more than 80 grams, or 2.8 ounces, to 90 grams, or 3.2 ounces, of red and
processed meat per day.
-- Eating at least fives serving daily of fruit and vegetables.
-- Exercise at least 30 minutes five or more days per week.
-- No more than 21 units per week of alcohol for men, or 15 units for women. One
unit of alcohol is about a half a pint of beer or a small glass of wine.
-- Overweight and obesity rates should be reduced to rates of 20 years ago.
The findings, published in the May issue of The European Journal of Cancer
Prevention, said the new projections suggest healthy changes in diet, exercise,
alcohol use and body weight could reduce the rate of colorectal cancer in
Britain by about 26 percent.
URL: www.upi.com
Copyright 2009 by United Press International