Suboptimal diets refers to eating habits that fall short of recommended nutritional guidelines. These diets often involve excessive consumption of unhealthy foods such processed items, high-sugar and high-fat foods. They lack essential nutrients like fibre, fruits, and vegetables. Such dietary patterns can increase the risk of numerous health issues.
A recent study highlighted the significant health risks posed by a suboptimal diet, suggesting that poor eating habits are linked to the global doubling of GI cancer cases. The study found that one in five GI cancer cases could be attributed to suboptimal diets.
The study analysed data from more than 180 countries over nearly three decades, from 1990 to 2018, covering six major GI cancers, including colorectal, liver, oesophageal, pancreatic, and gallbladder/biliary tract cancers. Findings showed a significant rise in age-standardised rates of liver, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers. The study also found that the highest rates of GI cancer were observed in regions such as Central and Eastern Europe, Central Asia, Latin America, and our region of the Caribbean.
Given the alarming rise in GI cancer cases linked to poor diets, experts stress the need for urgent public health interventions aimed at improving dietary habits. Looking back at some of the local statistics here in Cayman, as reported in the recent STEPS Survey, and the study highlighting high rates of GI cancers in our home region of the Caribbean, these are crucial findings for us to consider. While it can be challenging, we can work together to create change by utilising these findings and diagnostic tools to foster positive community initiatives. Such efforts, no matter how small at first, could significantly reduce the incidence of these cancers and help mitigate the growing global burden.
Read the full findings from the study here.
