A preliminary study suggests that persistent inflammation, as indicated by increased levels of C-reactive protein in the blood, is a risk factor for the development of colon cancer. However, according to an editorial by aNorthwestern University researcher, the link between chronic inflammation and colon cancer must be further explored before C-reactive protein is confirmed as a risk predictor. Colon cancer is the second most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. It is also considered one of the most preventable types of cancer, as there are several dietary factors that appear to play a protective role. Optimizing vitamin D levels is one of them as this has been found to be essential for reducing colon cancer.
EurekAlert! February 3, 2004