In this study, over 1500 patients underwent baseline colonoscopy to remove existing polyps. They were then given a survey about their diet. After a period of one and then four years later, the group underwent follow-up colonoscopies to determine if any polyps had returned. Those who had consumed diets higher in processed meats showed a greater risk of developing recurrent colorectal adenomas. Those with diets high in certain white meats, like chicken, were less prone to this risk.

Our results are consistent with prior studies that suggest certain dietary factors may be important in the development of colon polyps and cancer," states Douglas Robertson, lead researcher of the study and Chief of the Section of Gastroenterology at the VA Medical Center in White River Junction, Vermont.

Previous studies have explored whether fiber intake effects the growth and development of colorectal adenomas and cancer, however, this study found no significant evidence to suggest an association. The same was determined for dietary intake of fat and red meat.

According to the National Cancer Institute and U.S. National Institutes of Health, colorectal cancer is the third most common type of non-skin cancer in men (after prostate cancer and lung cancer) and in women (after breast cancer and lung cancer). It is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States with more than 57,000 people dying from colorectal cancer each year.

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It was revealed during this period that 560 persons (13.4 percent) were diagnosed as having new AMD, the majority of whom had early-stage AMD, but that risk was modified by diet, in particular, where vitamin E and zinc was achieved by consumption of whole grains, vegetable oil, eggs, and nuts, meat, poultry, fish and dairy products.

On the basis of this study, foods high in these nutrients appear to be more important than nutritional supplements.

Good sources of beta carotene are carrots, kale, and spinach, while vitamin C is found in citrus fruits and juices, green peppers, broccoli, and potatoes.

The researchers say that until more research is available, the information may be useful to persons with signs of early AMD or to those with a strong family history of AMD.

They say that although their findings need confirmation, their observational data suggests that a high intake of specific antioxidants from a regular diet may delay the development of AMD.

The study is published in the December 28 issue of JAMA.