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Adherence to a Cholesterol-Lowering Diet and the Risk of Pancreatic Cancer: A Case-Control Study
Matteo Di Maso1, Livia S A Augustin2, David J A Jenkins3,4,5,6
1Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Department of Excellence 2023-2027, Branch of Medical Statistics, Biometry and Epidemiology "G.A. Maccacaro", Università degli Studi di Milano, via Celoria 22, 20133 Milan, Italy.
Adhering to a plant-based, cholesterol-lowering diet may significantly reduce pancreatic cancer risk. This dietary pattern, rich in fibers and healthy fats, shows promising results for cancer prevention.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Epidemiology
- Oncology
- Cardiovascular Health
Background:
- Pancreatic cancer risk is linked to elevated serum cholesterol levels.
- Diet plays a role in modulating cholesterol and cancer risk.
- Investigating plant-based diets for pancreatic cancer prevention is warranted.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the association between pancreatic cancer risk and adherence to a plant-based cholesterol-lowering diet.
- To quantify the impact of specific dietary components on cancer risk.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study involving 258 pancreatic cancer patients and 551 controls.
- A seven-component cholesterol-lowering diet score was developed, focusing on fiber, fatty acids, legumes, phytosterols, saturated fats, cholesterol, and glycemic index.
- Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
Main Results:
- Higher adherence scores (5-7) for the cholesterol-lowering diet were associated with a significantly reduced risk of pancreatic cancer.
- The odds ratio for pancreatic cancer was 0.30 (95% CI: 0.18-0.52) for scores 5-7 compared to scores 0-2.
Conclusions:
- Adherence to a plant-based cholesterol-lowering diet is associated with a decreased risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
- Dietary interventions focusing on cholesterol reduction may offer a protective strategy against pancreatic cancer.
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