What is diverticulitis? Is it related to colorectal cancers?

Diverticula are pouches formed when the digestive tract wall herniates outward. Although they can occur throughout the digestive tract, they form most often in the colon (large intestine). They generally cause no symptoms. A possible problem is inflammation of these pouches, called diverticulitis. In approximately %4 of patients, inflammation may lead to perforations, abscesses and fistulas (unwanted connections). Besides potentially being dangerous, the disease creates an economic burden through diagnosis and treatment.

Although the exact cause is unknown, many factors are thought to be involved: NSAI (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory) drug use, inactivity, obesity, smoking and perhaps most importantly diet. One study found that vegans and vegetarians had %31 fewer hospital admissions for diverticulitis than meat eaters. This raises the question: “Is diet, particularly meat consumption, a risk factor for diverticulitis?” The result is bad news for heavy red meat consumers. According to a study published in Gut, high red meat consumption increases diverticular inflammation risk by %58.

The study evaluates dietary habits in men aged 40-75, numbering 46.500, over a period of 26 years. Consumption of processed and unprocessed red meat, poultry and fish is assessed weekly. Diverticulitis was identified in 764 men during follow-up. Diverticular inflammation was most commonly observed in those eating 6 portions of red meat weekly. An increase of %18 per portion was observed. Unprocessed meat, not subjected to smoking, salting or similar processing, was particularly implicated. Conversely, no association was found with high poultry or fish intake. Replacing a daily portion of red meat with chicken, turkey or fish reduces risk by %20.

How does red meat consumption cause diverticulitis?

Several theories exist. The first is that red meat increases inflammatory chemicals in the blood, such as C-reactive protein and ferritin. The development and persistence of inflammation play a role not only in diverticulitis but also in cancer formation. Inflammation may generate free radicals capable of damaging DNA. The relationship between processed red meat (sucuk, salami, sausages, etc.) and colorectal cancer is already known.

It is important to investigate diverticulitis in relation to cancer development as well. Red meat consumption also deserves attention in other diseases where inflammation plays a key role, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Secondly, the intestinal flora, or microbiota, is affected. Changes in the microbiotawill impair the integrity of the intestinal wall and alter the immune response. We should remember that the microbiota has important bodily functions and is even regarded as an organ. Changes in it are associated with diverticulitis and even colorectal cancer.

We noted that unprocessed meat has a greater role in diverticulitis development. High-temperature cooking methods, such as frying and grilling, are also very common, releasing harmful substances during cooking. The microbiota may be affected and inflammation may increase. To obtain the greatest benefit from meat, we should choose healthy cooking methods.

Examining factors involved in diverticulum formation, we see similar factors in the causes of colorectal cancer : meat consumption, low fiber intake, inactivity, smoking and so on. We should remember that making these lifestyle changes may be important for preventing both diverticulitis and colorectal cancer. Although diverticulum formation may appear harmless, it can produce unwanted consequences if precautions are not taken.