A Review on Dietary Intervention in Obesity Associated Colon Cancer

Abstract

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the major causes of morbidity and mortality. According to<br />National Cancer Registry, the incidence of colorectal cancer in Peninsular Malaysia increases with age. The incidence<br />is highest among Chinese population but lower among Indians and Malays. Many reviews have suggested that obesity<br />may be associated with a higher risk (>50%) of colorectal cancer. Methods: This study collects a comprehensive<br />data from the literature review available from respective journals on dietary intervention and the chemo-protective<br />mechanisms of a few natural resources in obesity -associated colon cancer based on previous and current studies.<br />Results: In obesity-associated colon cancer, the genes of interest and pathways that are mainly involved include<br />NFκB, P13K/Akt, and MAPK pathways, and FTO, leptin, Cyclin D, MMPs, and STAT3 genes. Dietary modification<br />is one of the alternative steps in early prevention of colon cancer. It has been proposed that the components present in<br />certain foods may have the ability to protect against many diseases including the prevention of cancer. Conclusion:<br />There are many factors that lead to obesity-associated colon cancer and the mechanisms behind it is still undergoing<br />intensive research. This review aims to scrutinize research as well as reviews that have been previously reported on<br />obesity associated colorectal cancer and the beneficial effects of including antioxidants-rich foods such as vegetables<br />and fruits in the diet to reduce the risk of obesity associated colorectal cancer.