Hyperlipidemia, obesity and high alcohol consumption are risk factors of early-onset colorectal cancer

Objectives:
Despite the widespread increase in the incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer (EoCRC), the reasons for this increase remain unclear. Therefore, this review article has been conducted.

What are the risk factors of early-onset colorectal cancer?

Study design:
This review article included 20 studies.

With the exception of alcohol consumption, there was considerable heterogeneity among studies [I2 > 60%].

Results and conclusions:
The investigators found colorectal cancer history in a first-degree relative was significantly associated with a 4.21-fold enhanced risk of early-onset colorectal cancer [RR = 4.21, 95% CI = 2.61 to 6.79].

The investigators found hyperlipidemia significantly increased risk of early-onset colorectal cancer with 62% [RR = 1.62, 95% CI = 1.22 to 2.13].

The investigators found obesity (BMI>30) significantly increased risk of of early-onset colorectal cancer with 54% [RR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.01 to 2.35].

The investigators found compared to non-drinkers, high alcohol consumption significantly increased risk of of early-onset colorectal cancer with 71% [RR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.62 to 1.80].

The investigators concluded that colorectal cancer history in a first-degree relative, hyperlipidemia (a high level of lipids (fats, cholesterol and triglycerides) circulating in the blood), obesity and high alcohol consumption are risk factors of early-onset colorectal cancer. High-quality studies conducted on generalizable populations and that comprehensively examine risk factors for early-onset colorectal cancer are required to inform primary and secondary prevention strategies.

Original title:
Risk Factors for Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis by O'Sullivan DE, Sutherland RL, […], Brenner DR.

Link:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33524598/

Additional information of El Mondo:
Find more information/studies on obesity, alcohol consumption and colorectal cancer right here.

Early-onset colorectal cancer is colorectal cancer diagnosed in a patient younger than age 50.