MILK MAY LOWER COLON CANCER RISK

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MILK MAY LOWER COLON CANCER RISK

Drinking milk may lower the risk of developing colon cancer, the results of

a study from Finland suggest.

http://primarycare.medscape.com/44940.rhtml?srcmp=pc-111601

" In a group of nearly 10,000 individuals who were 15 years of age and

older, those who consumed the most milk were the least likely to develop

colon cancer over 24 years...The investigators found that lactose may be

responsible for this protective effect by encouraging the growth of

bacteria that may inhibit cancer. Vitamin D and calcium were not associated

with colon cancer risk...No association was found between milk and milk

products and rectal cancer risk. In fact, individuals who ate the most

butter had a slightly higher risk of rectal cancer.

" Individuals who consumed the most milk -- mostly whole milk -- were 54%

less likely to develop colon cancer, and those who consumed the highest

percentage of milk products were 63% less likely to develop colon cancer.

Cheese and buttermilk appeared to raise the risk of colorectal cancers,

although the reasons why are not clear. The authors suggest that lifestyle

factors associated with heavy consumption of these products may be

responsible, or that these foods may contain a compound that contributes to

the development of colorectal cancers. "

Eur J Clin Nutr 2001;55:1000-1007.