Meat Consumption Is a Risk Factor for Colorectal Cancer: Meta-Analysis of Case-Control Studies

Abstract

Meat has been associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer in most, but not all, studies. Findings have shown conflicting results and inconclusive with regard to meat consumption in the colorectal cancers. To resolve these inconsistencies, we conducted a meta-analysis of published data on the association between meat and the incidence of colorectal cancer. Meta-analysis method was conducted to estimate the combined odds ratio (OR) between meat consumption and colorectal cancer from case-control studies published between 1989 and 2005. The combined odds ratio (OR) was 1.68 (95% CI; 1.34-2.12) in the 12 published case-control studies. The combined OR varied little by types of meat. Additionally, we evaluated the possible risk factors in meat for colorectal cancer. In conclusion, we found a positive association between meat consumption and colorectal cancer.