Cancer and Its Relationship with Dietary Patterns in Cordoba, Argentina

Abstract

Introduction: Diet is an important factor in the occurrence of cancer. Its approach to dietary patterns has attracted increasing attention in nutritional epidemiology, but is rarely used in Latin America. Objectives: To determine the dietary patterns of the adult population in Cordoba (Argentina) and assess their impact on the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC), breast cancer (BC), prostate cancer (PC) and urothelial cancer (UC). Methods: Case-control studies of CRC, BC, PC and UC were conducted from 2006 to 2012. The food pattern was determined by principal component factor analysis. ORs was estimated by multilevel logistic regression. Results: Characteristic patterns were found independently in the general population and in men and women. In the overall population, the Southern Cone and Sugary Drinks Patterns showed a promoter effect for CRC and UC, and the Prudent Pattern showed a protective effect. In women, BC is directly associated with the Female Southern Cone Pattern, Rural and Starchy patterns, as opposed to the Prudent Pattern. In men, the Male Southern Cone pattern, Sugary Drinks and Typical Moderate Patterns showed a promoting effect on PC. Conclusion: In order to prevent cancer, it is necessary to promote the normal intake of vegetables, fruits and dairy products (moderate intake for men) and reduce the intake of red meat (mainly fat), processed meat, polysaccharide vegetables, wine and sugary drinks. It is recommended that men eat eggs in moderation and women eat refined grains, pastry products, oil and mayonnaise in moderation.