Colon Cancer and Multivitamins

Jacob Farin, N.D.

Research has correlated an increased risk for colon cancer with inflammatory bowel diseases and a family history of colon cancer. One recent study, however, has shown a reduced risk for colon cancer with long-term use of multivitamins. The study, published in Annals of Internal Medicine, showed that when people took multivitamins for 15 years or more, the risk for colon cancer decreased by 75%. Short-term multivitamin use did not change colon cancer risk.

So, what is it about multivitamins that lowers your risk for colon cancer? Although the study indicated that folic acid may account for it, it is also reasonable to conclude that vitamins A, C and E, zinc and selenium decrease oxidative damage to the intestines. If you have a family history of colon cancer or if you have been diagnosed with any inflammatory bowel disease, consult with our doctors on staff. We can assess your risk for colon cancer and show you what you can do to prevent it.

 

Source: Ann Intern Med 1998; 129:517-24

 

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