High-Fiber Diet May Not Reduce Colon Cancer Risk

ATLANTA--In the April 20 edition of The New England Journal of Medicine, two studies found that a high-fiber diet may not protect against colon cancer. Previous studies suggested that a diet high in fiber could reduce a person's risk, but research had not directly measured the anti-cancer effects of a high-fiber diet.

In both studies, conducted at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the Arizona Cancer Center, some participants were put on a low-fat, high-fiber diet while others were simply told to practice healthy, low-fiber eating habits.

Within three years, colonoscopies found that the risk of developing a polyp, a precursor to colon cancer, was the same for both groups. Some researchers believe this was not a long enough time to observe the groups.

However, because the average age of the NCI study participants was 61, some suggest the findings show that dietary changes need to be made earlier in life. A high-fiber diet can still reduce the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. For further information, visit www.nejm.org/context/2000/0342/0016/1149.asp.