Inflammation and Cancer

Cancer and Inflammation
There is compelling evidence suggesting that the most common cancers are preceded by years of chronic inflammation. In 2005, the American Cancer Society estimated that 17% of new cancers worldwide may be attributable to infection accompanied by inflammation, and several other sources have estimated that approximately 15% of the global cancer burden is attributable to infectious agents.

Cancers Associated with Inflammation
Cancers caused by infections are thought to result from one or more of the following: chronic inflammation, immune suppression or chronic stimulation. Some cancers associated with inflammation include lung, esophageal and colorectal cancer. Lung cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related death in both men and women and can be attributed to cigarette smoking. Chronic stimulation by cigarette smoke stimulates the inflammatory response in the lining of the bronchus, leading to persistent bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). COPD is a known risk factor for lung cancer.

The incidence (number of new cases) of esophageal adenocarcinoma has increased 350% since 1970 and has been linked to chronic inflammation caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is also an important risk factor for esophageal cancer.

Finally, colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer mortality among men and women and has been associated with inflammatory bowel disease (i.e., ulcerative colitis), however further research is needed to confirm this association.

Low Grade Inflammation
The type of foods that we choose and the activities that we participate in, can affect the levels of inflammation in our system. What’s interesting is that we typically think of inflammation as being a good thing--after all, the four cardinal signs of inflammation (redness, swelling, heat and pain) are signs that our bodies are doing what they need to do--to fight infection and start the healing process. In these cases, inflammation is present for a short period of time to complete a specific job, and this is a good thing. However, chronic, low-grade inflammation that dwells within our body day to day is not good for our health.

Anti-Inflammatory Foods
One of the best ways to maintain a healthy body and achieve optimal health is to consume foods in their natural form--as whole foods. When you consistently consume a meal that is at least two-thirds vegetables, fruits and whole grains and the other third lean meat or fish, you are supplying your body with anti-inflammatory foods and setting yourself up for a strong defense against cancer. People often run into trouble by consuming foods with low-quality sources of fat (such as hydrogenated oils), sugar (such as high-fructose corn syrup) and processed, refined foods in general. Some of the best anti-inflammatory foods include berries, salmon, nuts, green tea and red wine.