Calcium and Colorectal Cancer: Some Questions Remain

• Published in: Nutrition reviews Vol. 62; no. 3; pp. 115 - 120
• Main Authors: Chia, Victoria, Newcomb, Dr. Polly A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01.03.2004
• ISSN: 0029-6643
• DOI: 10.1301/nr.2004.mar.115-120

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.