227. Typical American diet linked to increased risk of colorectal cancer
Dr. David Geier is an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist in Charleston, South Carolina and Charlotte, North Carolina. He helps athletes and active people feel and perform their best, regardless of age, injuries and medical history. He has been featured in major media publications and shows over 2,500 times throughout his career.
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and second deadliest cancer in the U.S., causing over 50,000 deaths each year. A new study shows that the typical American diet might be to blame. In a new study published in the journal Gastroenterology, researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston found that diets consisting mainly of red meats, processed meats, sugar, and refined carbs were associated with colorectal tumors containing elevated amounts of pks+ E. coli bacteria. The scientists believe this bacteria increases the cancer-inducing activity of an intestinal compound called colibactin. Plus, these typical Western diets have been shown to cause inflammation in the gut and throughout the body, which are also precursors to colorectal tumors.
Through the stories of a dozen athletes whose injuries and recovery advanced the field (including Joan Benoit, Michael Jordan, Brandi Chastain, and Tommy John), Dr. Geier explains how sports medicine makes sports safer for the pros, amateurs, student-athletes, and weekend warriors alike.
