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Large Waist Increases Colon Cancer Risk

by Donna Myers
for About.com

Updated: September 28, 2007

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A lot of studies have shown a link between obesity and colon cancer. New research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition points specifically to belly fat as a risk factor.

Researchers analyzed 30 long-term colon cancer studies and ultimately decided that for every four inches of extra girth around the waist, colon cancer risk increases in women by 16% and in men by 33%.

Check out Losing Weight to Prevent Colon Cancer for more information on how to reduce your risk.

Related Research:

Source: Larsson, S. and Wolk, A. "Obesity and Colon and Rectal Cancer Risk: A Meta-analysis of Prospective Studies." American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 86.3 (Sep. 2007): 556-565. Accessed 8 Sep. 2007 [http://www.ajcn.org/cgi/content/abstract/86/3/556?ct=ct].

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