In a nutshell
This study investigated the effect of coffee intake in stage 3 colon cancer. Researchers suggested that an increased coffee intake is associated with a lower risk of cancer recurrence (when the cancer comes back) and improved survival.
Some background
High levels of insulin in the blood, inactive lifestyle, obesity and diet with high levels of sugar are associated with increased colon cancer recurrence rates.
Prior studies showed that high levels of coffee intake are associated with a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes and lower levels of insulin in the blood. Others studies showed an association between high coffee intake and lower risk of colorectal cancer. However, the association between high coffee intake and colorectal cancer recurrence is still unknown.
Methods & findings
The objective of this study was to investigate the association between high coffee intake and colorectal cancer RR.
953 stage 3 colorectal cancer patients were followed during post-surgery chemotherapy and 6 months after. Patients provided information on their diets and coffee intake by questionnaires.
When compared with no coffee intake, total coffee (4 cups or more) was associated with 42% decreased risk of recurrence or death, while for caffeinated coffee the risk was decreased by 52%.
An increase in caffeine intake was associated with 34% less risk of colorectal cancer recurrenc or death. Coffee intake was also associated with a 13% improvement in the odds of a better overall survival. Non-herbal tea and decaffeinated coffee were not associated with patient outcomes.
The bottom line
This study determined that higher coffee intake was associated with improved colorectal cancer outcomes.
Published By :
Journal of clinical oncology
Date :
Aug 17, 2015
