Long-term cancer survivors who follow a Mediterranean diet may have a greater chance of living longer, according to a recent Italian cohort study. The study, conducted by Dr. Marialaura Bonaccio and colleagues, followed survivors for nearly 13 years and found that those with high adherence to the diet had a 32% lower risk of all-cause mortality compared to those with poor adherence.
The Mediterranean diet, known for its emphasis on vegetables, fruits, fish, olive oil, and nuts, has been linked to various health benefits. In this study, high adherence to the diet was not only associated with lower cardiovascular mortality but also with potential benefits for cancer survivors. The diet is rich in polyphenols, bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antitumor activities that may play a role in preventing cardiovascular disease and possibly impacting cancer progression.
While high adherence to the Mediterranean diet was not significantly linked to lower cancer mortality in this study, it did show promising results for overall survival and cardiovascular health. The study analyzed data from the Moli-sani Study, a large cohort in Italy, and identified 802 participants with a cancer diagnosis. Participants with greater adherence to the diet tended to have a higher socioeconomic status and be more physically active.
Despite the positive findings, the study had several limitations that need to be considered. As an observational study, causality cannot be inferred, and there may be biases at play, such as survival bias. Additionally, the study included various types of cancers, which have complex progression and recurrence patterns that could influence the results.
The results of this study suggest that maintaining or adopting a Mediterranean diet after a cancer diagnosis may have beneficial effects on long-term survival. While more research is needed to understand the specific mechanisms at play, incorporating healthy dietary habits, such as those found in the Mediterranean diet, may be a valuable aspect of cancer survivorship care.
The Mediterranean diet shows promise as a potential dietary intervention for long-term cancer survivors. By focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods and incorporating elements like olive oil and fish, survivors may improve their overall health and increase their chances of long-term survival. While further research is needed to confirm these findings, the study provides valuable insights into the role of diet in cancer survivorship.
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