People who have had bowel cancer who drink more than 4 cups of coffee per day have a lower risk of the cancer recurring than those who have 2 or fewer cups.
They also have a lower risk of death following their diagnosis, according to new research recently published in the International Journal of Cancer.
The study found that participants who drank more than 4 cups of coffee had a 32% lower risk of cancer recurrence than participants who drank less than 2 cups per day in terms of relative risk. In addition, the risk of dying was lower among coffee drinkers, and 3–5 cups of coffee per day seem sufficient to improve survival.
The observational study, funded by World Cancer Research Fund*, analysed a cohort of 1,700 people in the Netherlands of median age 66, who were diagnosed and treated for colorectal cancer, commonly known as bowel cancer, since August 2010.
Of 540 patients who reported drinking more than 4 cups of coffee per day, 73 (13.5%) experienced cancer recurrence. This is significantly lower than those who drank fewer than 2 cups per day, (89 out of 499 or 17.8%). In addition, relatively fewer of those who reported drinking more coffee have died since their diagnosis, with the lowest all-cause mortality at around 4 cups per day.
Previous evidence from World Cancer Research Fund shows that coffee can help protect against several cancers including liver and womb cancers. This is despite public perception that coffee may not be healthy. For example, polling conducted by YouGov on behalf of World Cancer Research Fund has shown that 12% of all UK adults mistakenly believe that drinking coffee increases cancer risk**.
People who have had a cancer diagnosis or treatment are advised to follow World Cancer Research Fund’s evidence-based Cancer Prevention Recommendations, the conclusions of an independent panel of experts.
Intriguing results
People diagnosed with bowel cancer are living longer than before. Unfortunately, in about 20% of those treated the disease returns and can be fatal. So, it is intriguing that this study suggests drinking 3–4 cups of coffee may reduce the recurrence of bowel cancer. We are now doing further research to confirm the effect we are seeing is causative rather than simply an association. We are hopeful, however, that the finding is real because it appears to be dose dependent – the more coffee drunk, the greater the effect. This has been previously supported by other, though smaller, studies.
Strong association
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.
More research needed
More research is needed to understand the active ingredients in coffee and how they might influence cancer development and progression. For example, certain compounds in coffee could reduce oxidative stress in the body, influence the gut microbiome, improve metabolic health, or help protect liver health to prevent cancer spreading. With further support from World Cancer Research Fund, this research team hopes to get a much clearer picture and obtain the necessary evidence to make recommendations on coffee drinking to health providers, patients and the public.
Shaping the future
These are promising findings but more evidence is needed before we would recommend bowel cancer patients change their diet to include more cups of coffee, but this study could shape future clinical studies and inform dietary guidelines.
Notes to Editors
About the research
This study used data from a prospective cohort of colorectal cancer patients, the “Colorectal cancer: Longitudinal, Observational study on Nutritional and lifestyle factors that influence colorectal tumor recurrence, survival and quality of life” (COLON) study.
The study found that of 540 patients who reported drinking more than 4 cups of coffee per day, 73 (13.5%) experienced cancer recurrence. This is lower than for those who drank 2–4 cups per day (93 out of 664 or 14%) and significantly lower than those who drank less than 2 cups per day, (89 out of 499 or 17.8%).
In addition, relatively fewer of those who reported drinking more coffee have died since their diagnosis, with the lowest all-cause mortality at around 4 cups per day. Of the 1,700 people, approximately 300 (18%) have died of all causes.
*The study was funded by Wereld Kanker Onderzoek Fonds in the Netherlands as part of World Cancer Research Fund International’s grant programme.
The study did not assess different types of coffee; in their subsequent analysis of metabolomics, the authors intend having more detailed insights into coffee type, the metabolites responsible, and potential mechanisms.
The study focuses on coffee consumption and does not include tea consumption. The association the researchers observed remained the same after accounting for tea consumption in the data analysis.
About bowel cancer
Bowel cancer is the 3rd most common cancer worldwide. It is the 2nd most common cancer in women, after breast cancer. It is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, with around 45,000 people diagnosed every year.
About World Cancer Research Fund
World Cancer Research Fund examines how diet, nutrition, body weight and physical activity affect your risk of developing and surviving cancer. As part of an international network of charities, we have been funding life-saving research, influencing global public health policy, and educating the public since 1982.
While society continues searching for a cure, our prevention and survival work is helping people live longer, happier, healthier lives – free from the devastating effects of cancer.
Preventing Cancer. Saving Lives
About YouGov Poll
**All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 2092 GB adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 28–29 June 2023. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 18+).
World Cancer Research Fund part-funded the study authored by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) which has found connections between early-onset bowel (also known as colorectal) cancer and various genetic and socio-economic factors. They found strong links with body fat, alcohol consumption, and educational attainment.
This genome-wide association study, the first of its kind, looked at more than 70,000 people, including almost 6,200 people under 50 who had been diagnosed with bowel cancer. Rates of early-onset bowel cancer are on the increase in many parts of the world, but the reasons are not yet fully understood.
The researchers identified new genetic variants associated with the development of early-onset bowel cancer, as well as confirming known pathways involved in bowel cancer development.
The team used Mendelian randomisation, which is a statistical way of analysing genetic variation between people. It analyses risk factors both independently and together, to help disentangle the direction of causality.
New insights into early onset bowel cancer
This important study provides new insights into people’s genetic susceptibility to early-onset bowel cancer, as well as strengthening our knowledge of the modifiable risk factors involved, notably body weight and alcohol intake. It also shows the importance of socio-economic factors and health inequalities when it comes to early onset cancer prevention.
Role of obesity and alcohol
Our study presents evidence showing the genes and environmental factors that are driving early-onset bowel cancer. It’s shown us that obesity and alcohol consumption may be important contributors to the rising rates of the disease. Public health efforts to address these important risk factors could lower the risk of early onset colorectal cancer for many people.
World Cancer Research Fund is funding research into many aspects of bowel cancer, for both prevention and survival, including the associations highlighted in this study. We are funding another study by Dr Murphy on bowel cancer in younger adults, as we work towards a world where no one dies of a preventable cancer.
> Read the paper in Annals of Oncology
> More about Dr Murphy’s research for World Cancer Research Fund
Related content
Dress right, rest right
It’s important to remember to dress appropriately for your workout and warm up just before, especially if you’re exercising outside. Shoes with good grip, warm clothes, gloves, a headband or beanie, and a scarf or snood can help you avoid getting too cold, sick or injured. And don’t forget to rest and recover, including stretching after.
Keeping active in winter may have its challenges, but setting SMART goals and creating a routine to build healthy habits can help you achieve your goals. Embrace the chill, stay active and watch it transform your overall well-being during the winter season and beyond!
Are you interested in building healthy habits? Sign up to Activ8, our free 8-week online behaviour change programme that can help you achieve your health goals, including being more active.
More exercise-related news and blogs
Every year, 11 February is the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, to recognise the significant gender gap that persists at all levels of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The day, which was set up by the United Nations, celebrates women and girls in the field of science, and promotes full and equal access to and participation in science for women and girls.
This International Day of Women and Girls in Science, World Cancer Research Fund is shining a light on the experiences of our female scientists and finding out what led them to a career in science.
Who’s who
- Dr Kate Allen is Science and Policy Adviser at World Cancer Research Fund.
- Becky Camenzuli is our Research Officer (Impact).
- Kendra Chow is our Policy and Public Affairs Manager.
- Dr Jana Sremanakova is our Research Funding Manager.
- Dr Ioana Vlad is our Senior Policy Research Manager.
Why did you choose a career in science?
Jana: “I come from an academic family with a university education spanning 3 generations. My grandfather was a professor in physics and mathematics; my grandma studied linguistics and languages; and my father was an electronics engineer with a love for chemistry. They all exposed me to science throughout my childhood. Despite this, my dream was to be a fashion designer.
Nevertheless, I decided to pursue science following my grandmother’s passing. This was prompted by my grandmother’s diagnosis of advanced-stage colorectal cancer. Witnessing her rapid deterioration and intense suffering made me focus my interest on cancer as a disease. I wanted to understand more about its nature and contribute towards finding a cure and preventive measures, driven by the hope that others wouldn’t suffer like my grandmother.”
Kate: “I was interested in both arts and sciences but, when I was at school, you had to choose. I chose science because I was (and still am) interested in how things work, both in animals and plants. I enjoyed finding out about anatomy, biochemistry and physiology. In later years that developed into more of a medical and health interest, which ultimately led me to work at World Cancer Research Fund.”
Ioana: “I like to say this career chose me. I’ve always had an inner drive to understand how things (life, nature, people) work. This led me to focus on how research and science can improve people’s lives – this is what we sometimes call being evidence-based. I am lucky to now be working for World Cancer Research Fund, where every day our work focuses on how we can change people’s environments so they can live a healthier and longer life.”
Becky: “From a young age, I was naturally more inclined towards science. The fascinating world of nutrition, and understanding how our dietary choices influence health outcomes, intrigued me. Enjoying studying biology and chemistry (for the most part) during my teenage years facilitated my decision to enrol into a nutrition course, leading me to my current role.
What excites me most about a career in science is the opportunity to be at the forefront of innovative research. Contributing to groundbreaking discoveries that can positively impact numerous lives is a driving force behind my commitment to this field. It’s the thrill of being part of something larger than myself and the tangible possibility of making a meaningful difference that keeps me motivated in my scientific endeavours.”
Kendra: “I’ve always had a naturally curious disposition, even when I was little. Matched with strong observational and analytical skills, I’ve always found myself wanting to learn more. I’ve often approached it as a mystery that needs to be solved—I very much enjoy being a scientific detective!
“I started my scientific career in university doing more core science, lab/bench work in biochemistry, and then moving into medical and health sciences through nutrition and becoming a registered dietitian (RD). From there, I found my true passion in public health: where the intersection of health, science and society meet.”
Have you, as a woman, experienced any barriers to success, or discrimination on the way?
Kendra: “Absolutely. At one institution, I experienced harassment and intimidation from supervisors and individuals who were in leadership positions. This behaviour was also enabled and supported by a great number of people who made excuses for it. I’ve also had other classic ‘women-in-science experiences’ with others taking credit for my work, being talked over, not having my ideas or suggestions being taken seriously… the works.
“But, more recently, I’ve had much more positive experiences: benefiting from guidance, leadership and mentorship that has been encouraging, empowering and has fostered my growth as a scientist. I’m hopeful that this is a sign of change and improvement for women and girls in science.”
Ioana: “Looking back, I really didn’t know this career was open to me until I was an adult. I’d have liked to know it was an option earlier. I think I would have then had more practice with confidently asking my million questions, and perhaps been a bit less afraid to ask the wrong question or failing. I sometimes compare it with girls of my generation and sports. Girls now may find it very strange, but when I was a kid girls were not allowed to play football in schools. So now I’ll never know if I could have become a pro footballer (probably not). Of course, I have tried it as an adult (alongside other sports) – but I’m terrible at first because I don’t know any of the rules. Science is a bit like that – you can probably start late (and do if you want to!), but having a bit of practice, as a kid, gives you a head start.”
Kate: “I haven’t experienced discrimination as a woman – but I did experience barriers. When working as a research technician I wanted to do a PhD at the same time (part-time), but the rules were that as a technician you could only do technical type degrees like a BTEC or HND. So I had to make the case for doing a PhD, which involved meeting with senior scientists and having the whole thing discussed by the senior management group. They approved me doing the PhD and after that changed the rules, so anyone in a technical role could pursue a PhD if they wanted to.”
Jana: “I was fortunate on my journey and had excellent supervisors and mentors who helped me. Even before achieving my PhD, I conducted research and published papers as a research assistant. Generally, I would say that women in science still face challenges, particularly if they want to become mothers. The limited support with funding and the break from research during maternity leave can be challenging, but it is still possible to overcome these hurdles. This illustrates women’s strength, organisation, and capability in research, effectively managing both motherhood and science.”
Becky: “The nutrition field is predominantly led by women, so fortunately I have never felt that being a woman has hindered my opportunities. Nevertheless, I recognise and appreciate the challenges faced by many women who came before me, overcoming adversity to pave the way for individuals like me to comfortably navigate the scientific space.”
What would you say to girls to inspire them to follow a career in science?
Kendra: “Stay curious. If someone tells you to stop asking questions … keep asking them! Take charge, be ‘bossy’. Don’t worry about getting yourself or your clothes dirty if the experiment calls for it. Explore, see new worlds – big or small! And always know you belong here, and we need you – your intelligence and strength will advance science for everyone’s benefit.”
Jana: “I recommend girls pursue what they have a genuine passion for. This is particularly true in science, where the journey can be a rollercoaster, ranging from easy to challenging. Undertaking something with a deeper meaning can aid in overcoming challenges and motivate you to persevere. A career in science is rewarding and satisfying in numerous ways.
“Moreover, it’s crucial to recognise that working in science extends beyond academia or the lab. There are diverse clinical research opportunities, collaboration with people, industry positions, or positions in charitable organisations, and the funding sector. These avenues offer significant opportunities for growth and progress.”
Ioana: “This is one of the best jobs in the world. You’ll know it may suit you if you’re always curious about how things work and always asking questions, from yourself and others. What’s more, the answers science gives us can be used to make people’s lives better! But also be prepared to deal with not finding answers immediately, and keep in mind that dwelling in the unknown can be challenging, but also fun and rewarding!”
Kate: “Science gives you the freedom to pursue your own ideas and find out more about the world around you – and gives you the opportunity to discover something that no one else has. Science can be very creative and open doors to a whole range of career paths. I started out as a scientist, then became a medical writer, then set up a new Interactive Education Unit, then moved into science administration at World Cancer Research Fund, and most recently developed policy as a new programme area here. All of that has been built on the foundations of what I learned as a scientist and the skills I developed in a science environment.”
Get our policy enewsletter
Our monthly digest of the most important developments in international policy relating to cancer and nutrition and physical activity
Sign up to our FREE 8-week healthy living programme that will help you build better habits to eat well and move more!