Save your gut from bad fat

Manila, Philippines -  Recent data from the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) highlighted the potentially deadly link between higher Body Mass Index (BMI) and colorectal cancer. The latest finding was released during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

The ACG study stressed that dietary and other modifiable risk factors may account for as many as 90 percent of colorectal cancers, with recent studies suggesting that about one-quarter of colorectal cancer cases can be avoided by following a healthy lifestyle.

In the Philippines, cancers of the colon and rectum combined are the fourth most prevalent type of cancer among Filipinos. The 2010 Philippine Cancer Facts and Estimates also noted that colorectal cancer incidence begins to rise steeply at age 50 for both males and females. The reported risk factors among Filipinos are personal or family history, polyps and inflammatory bowel disease. Evidence suggests that a diet high in fat and deficient in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables also increases the risk among Filipinos.

Philippine Society of Oncologists (PSO) president Dr. Romulo de Villa said that obesity, which causes metabolic syndrome, can affect colorectal cancer development and mortality.

Metabolic syndrome is a condition that has been largely attributed to heart disease and diabetes. Recent studies also pinpointed its potential role in cancer development. Metabolic syndrome risk factors include a large waistline, high triglyceride (or bad fats) level, low HDL or good cholesterol level, high blood pressure, and high fasting blood sugar.

Dr. De Villa further explained that saturated fats are associated with increased risk for cancer while good fats, such as monounsaturated and omega-3 fatty acids, are associated with reduced risk for heart disease and possibly cancer.

Besides maintaining a healthy weight, Dr. de Villa also encourages Filipinos at average risk for colorectal cancer to begin screening at age 50. For high-risk individuals, regular screenings can start at age 45. Colonoscopy is one of the preferred screenings for colorectal cancer.

The frequency of screening will depend on each individual’s risk factors and based on the doctor’s recommendations.

“Filipinos need to understand the link between a higher Body Mass Index (BMI) and colorectal cancer, take this risk factor seriously, and talk to their doctor about colorectal cancer tests,” concluded Dr. De Villa.