Frequent Dining Out Associated with Increased Colorectal Cancer Risk, New Study Finds
BEIJING – A new study published in Frontiers in Oncology reveals a notable link between frequently eating meals prepared outside the home and a heightened risk of colorectal cancer. Researchers analyzing data from a large Chinese cohort found that individuals who regularly dine out may face an elevated risk of developing the disease, with obesity possibly playing a mediating role.
The findings, based on analysis of employed adults under 60, add to a growing body of evidence highlighting the impact of dietary habits on cancer development. Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide,and lifestyle factors are known to contribute substantially to its incidence. This research underscores the importance of public health initiatives focused on promoting healthier eating patterns and addressing the potential risks associated with frequent consumption of restaurant meals.
The study, led by Zhang P and colleagues, examined the dining habits of a large group of employed adults in China. researchers discovered a statistically significant association between dining out often and an increased risk of both rectal and colon cancer. While the study acknowledges limitations – including reliance on self-reported data and the inability to assess precise meal details – the researchers state the association remains strong within the studied population.
“The findings of our study demonstrate that frequent dining out is considerably associated with an elevated risk of colorectal cancer,” the researchers wrote. They further suggest that obesity may partially explain this connection, reinforcing the need for comprehensive strategies to combat unhealthy lifestyle choices.
Researchers adjusted for numerous factors,but acknowledge the possibility of unmeasured confounders influencing the results. The study’s focus on employed adults under 60 also limits broad generalization to other demographics. Further research is needed to confirm these findings in diverse populations and to explore the specific components of restaurant meals that may contribute to increased cancer risk.
References:
- Zhang P, Xing WJ, Zhang J, et al. Impact of dining out frequency on the risk of colorectal cancer: insights from a large Chinese cohort. Front Oncol. 2025; 15: 1626303. doi: 10.3389/FONC.2025.1626303
- See JY, Jin, Chng GE, et al. The risk of colorectal cancer according to obesity status at four-year intervals: a nationwide population-based cohort study. Sci Rep. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-36111-6
