Many studies suggest that Western lifestyle and dietary factors may be responsible for the high incidence of colorectal cancer in industrialized countries. Consumption of high amounts of red and processed meat and low intake of fiber and multiple protective phytochemicals found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains might be responsible for the high incidence of this neoplasm in the Western world. Additionally, obesity, lack of physical activity, tobacco and alcohol use, sleep deprivation, and other factors have been proven to further increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Identifying and understanding the mechanisms through which they impact colon carcinogenesis is needed for the introduction of protective lifestyle recommendations.
Keywords: Colorectal cancer; Lifestyle modification; Obesity; Physical activity; Phytochemicals; Prevention.