Calcium Cuts Colon Cancer Risk

Generally established as beneficial for bone health, calcium is emerging as an important mineral to support other body systems.  N. Keum, from Harvard School of Public Health (Massachusetts, USA), and colleagues completed a meta-analysis of 15 published studies, involving 12,305 cases of colorectal cancer and calcium intakes between 250 to 1,900 mg/day; the selected studies lasted up to 16 years.  Observing a dose-responsive effect, the investigators noted a 9% risk reduction for every 300 mg increase in calcium intake.  The study authors conclude that: “both dietary and supplementary calcium intake may continue to decrease [colorectal cancer] risk beyond 1,000 mg/day. Calcium supplements and non-dairy products fortified with calcium may serve as additional targets in the prevention of [colorectal cancer].”