Dietary fibre consumption in Britain: new estimates and their relation to large bowel cancer mortality
1985

Dietary Fibre and Large Bowel Cancer Mortality in Britain

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): S.A. Bingham, D.R.R. Williams, J.H. Cummings

Primary Institution: Medical Research Council & University of Cambridge

Hypothesis

Does dietary fibre consumption relate to large bowel cancer mortality?

Conclusion

Dietary fibre intake in Britain is lower than previously thought, and certain components of dietary fibre show significant inverse correlations with colon cancer mortality.

Supporting Evidence

  • Average dietary fibre intake was found to be 13.7 g day-1, lower than previous estimates.
  • Significant inverse correlations were found between colon cancer mortality and intakes of uronic acids and cellulose.
  • The previous study suggested a strong correlation with the pentose fraction, which was not supported in this analysis.

Takeaway

Eating more dietary fibre might help lower the risk of colon cancer, but people in Britain are eating less than we thought.

Methodology

The study used regional dietary fibre intake data and compared it with cancer mortality rates, employing standardised methods for analysis.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to reliance on historical dietary data and the accuracy of food composition tables.

Limitations

The study's findings may be limited by the accuracy of dietary fibre measurement methods and the regional differences in dietary habits.

Participant Demographics

The study analyzed data from various regions in Britain, focusing on dietary habits and cancer mortality rates.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.01

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

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