The effect of fecal bile acids on the incidence and risk-stratification of colorectal cancer: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis
2025

Fecal Bile Acids and Colorectal Cancer Risk

Sample size: 1265 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Yang Shaohui, Wang Yu, Sheng Lijuan, Cui Wei, Ma Chenyang

Primary Institution: Ningbo Medical Center Lihuili Hospital

Hypothesis

Is there a correlation between fecal bile acid concentrations and the risk of colorectal cancer?

Conclusion

Higher fecal concentrations of bile acids may be associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer.

Supporting Evidence

  • Individuals with high risk of colorectal cancer had higher concentrations of fecal bile acids than those at low risk.
  • The study included 23 observational studies with a total of 1265 participants.
  • Meta-analysis showed significant differences in bile acid concentrations between high-risk and low-risk groups.
  • Different detection methods were used across studies, which may affect the results.

Takeaway

This study found that people with higher levels of certain bile acids in their poop might be more likely to get colon cancer.

Methodology

The study performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of cross-sectional and case-control studies to assess the relationship between fecal bile acids and colorectal cancer.

Potential Biases

Different studies had varying detection methods, which may affect the accuracy of results.

Limitations

The study included various detection methods and had unavoidable information bias and confounding bias.

Participant Demographics

The studies included participants from multiple countries, including China, the UK, the USA, France, Japan, Germany, and Zimbabwe.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.02 for CA, 0.009 for CDCA, 0.03 for DCA, 0.005 for UDCA, p<0.00001 for combined effect size in high-risk vs. low-risk groups.

Confidence Interval

95% CI: 0.5–0.76 for CA, 95% CI: 0.09–0.62 for CDCA, 95% CI: 0.03–0.64 for DCA, 95% CI: 0.14–0.78 for UDCA.

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/s41598-024-84801-6

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