Breast Cancer and Colon Cancer: The Similar Dietary Risk Factors

In addition to smoking, eating habits, drinking, obesity, infections, and lack of exercise, genetic factors can play a 5-10% role in the development of cancer. There are cases where people who have had colon cancer or ovarian cancer develop breast cancer again. Was it just bad luck? These cancers tend to share the same genes. Also, if a person who has had cancer does not change their bad lifestyle habits, there is a possibility that they will develop other cancers. Let’s take a look at the causes of cancer again.

The Impact of Diet on Breast Cancer

People who eat a lot of food containing saturated fat, such as meat, oily foods, and processed foods, for a long period of time gain weight and have a higher incidence of breast cancer. Animal products can produce more carcinogens depending on the cooking method, such as grilling over an open fire or frying.

Being overweight increases the risk of breast cancer, especially in postmenopausal women. Research shows that for every 5-unit increase in body mass index, the risk of breast cancer increases by 9-19%. On the other hand, obesity in premenopausal women decreases the risk of breast cancer. For every 5-unit increase in body mass index, the risk of breast cancer decreases by about 14% (National Cancer Information Center data). Obesity, one of the risk factors for breast cancer, has mixed effects depending on whether or not one has menopause.

Colon Cancer: A Similar Dietary Risk Factor

Colon cancer is also a risk factor due to excessive consumption of animal fat and obesity. If you continue to eat foods high in animal fat and saturated fat, or enjoy red meat such as pork and beef, or processed meats such as sausages, ham, and bacon, the risk of colon cancer increases. Eating grilled or fried meat frequently is also a cause. If you gain a lot of weight due to lack of exercise, the risk of colon cancer increases by up to 2.5 times. In 2021 alone, 32,751 cases of colon cancer occurred, making it the most common cancer in Korea.

The Importance of Dietary Fiber and Exercise

Meat should also be eaten to consume nutrients such as protein. However, do not overeat, and eat it with vegetables and fruits that contain a lot of dietary fiber, which reduces neutral fat and cholesterol in the body. Vegetables and fruits are rich in antioxidants such as plant-based physiologically active substances, which suppress the creation of cancer cells. It is also good to eat onions, garlic, and lettuce. There are also products made in factories, such as snacks and noodles, that contain a lot of saturated fat. Physical activity is also essential. If you do not move your body, calories accumulate in your body, which leads to weight gain and an increased risk of cancer. Paying attention to your diet and exercise helps prevent obesity and cancer.