Recent research published in the International Journal of Cancer indicates that individuals who have previously been diagnosed with bowel cancer and consume more than four cups of coffee daily may have a decreased risk of cancer recurrence compared to those who consume two or fewer cups.
Conducted as an observational study funded by the World Cancer Research Fund, the research analysed a cohort of 1,700 individuals in the Netherlands, with a median age of 66, who had been diagnosed and treated for colorectal cancer (bowel cancer) since August 2010.
The findings revealed that participants who consumed more than four cups of coffee daily exhibited a 32% lower risk of cancer recurrence compared to those who consumed less than two cups daily, in terms of relative risk. Additionally, coffee drinkers had a reduced risk of mortality, with optimal benefits observed at a consumption level of three to five cups per day.
Among the participants who reported drinking more than four cups of coffee daily, only 13.5% experienced cancer recurrence, a significant reduction compared to the 17.8% recurrence rate observed among those who consumed fewer than two cups daily. Furthermore, individuals who reported higher coffee consumption levels also demonstrated lower all-cause mortality rates.
Lead researcher Prof Ellen Kampman, Professor of Nutrition and Disease at Wageningen University and Research in the Netherlands, highlighted the importance of these findings in potentially extending the longevity of individuals diagnosed with bowel cancer. She emphasised ongoing research efforts aimed at confirming whether coffee consumption directly influences cancer recurrence, noting the dose-dependent relationship observed in the study.
The study’s first author, Abisola Oyelere, currently pursuing a PhD in nutritional epidemiology, said “Coffee consumption is linked to a lower bowel cancer risk in the literature. We wondered whether coffee could also reduce the rate of bowel cancer coming back in those who have already had a diagnosis. We found a strong association between drinking coffee and a reduced recurrence and mortality in people with a bowel cancer diagnosis.”
Co-author Prof Marc Gunter of Imperial College London stressed the need for further investigation into the specific compounds within coffee that may impact cancer development and progression. He suggested potential mechanisms such as the reduction of oxidative stress, modulation of the gut microbiome, improvement of metabolic health, or protection of liver health.
Supported by the World Cancer Research Fund, the research team aims to deepen understanding and provide evidence-based recommendations regarding coffee consumption for healthcare providers, patients, and the general public.
Dr Panagiota Mitrou, Director of Research, Policy, and Innovation at World Cancer Research Fund, emphasised the promising nature of the findings but urged caution until further evidence is gathered. She reiterated the importance of following the organization’s evidence-based Cancer Prevention Recommendations for individuals with a history of cancer diagnosis or treatment.
While previous evidence suggests coffee’s potential protective effects against various cancers, including liver and womb cancers, further research is needed to solidify these findings and inform dietary guidelines effectively. Despite public misconceptions, emerging research underscores the potential health benefits of moderate coffee consumption in specific contexts.
