Coffee Could Be Colon Cancer Magic Pill: Study

A new study found coffee-drinking benefits for people with colon cancer. The research showed improved odds of survival and lowered risk of tumor reoccurrence in people who consume more than four cups a day.

According to CBS News, researchers compiled nutritional information from 950 people before and after chemotherapy between 1999 and 2001. During follow-up period of seven years, researchers noted cancer reoccurrence and death rates. They found that participants who reported drinking at least two cups of caffeinated coffee had lowered risk for cancer reoccurrence and death while the risk was further reduced in people taking three or four cups a day.

"We found that coffee drinkers had a lower risk of the cancer coming back and a significantly greater survival and chance of a cure," said study's lead author Charles S. Fuchs.

While the study did not explain a cause-effect relationship, researchers believe that caffeine, not other components, affects the colon cancer pathway to lower risk of reoccurrence and death. One hypothesis is caffeine increases body's sensitivity to insulin, lowering the hormone's need. This in turn reduces diabetes risk and inflammation.

However, researchers are not making any recommendations yet. They say the study is the first to show an association which has to be tested through more research to establish a cause-effect relationship.

"If you are a coffee drinker and are being treated for colon cancer, don't stop. But if you're not a coffee drinker and wondering whether to start, you should first discuss it with your physician," Fuchs said.