Higher HDL Cholesterol May Cut Colon Cancer Risk

A recent analysis revealed that people with the highest blood levels of HDL cholesterol had the lowest risk for developing colon cancer. Each rise in HDL of around 16 mg/dL was associated with a 22% reduction in colon cancer risk, after adjusting for diet, lifestyle, and weight.

Earlier studies have suggested a higher colon cancer risk in people with metabolic syndrome -- a group of risk factors that increase the risk for heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

In the newly published study Bueno-de-Mesquita says low HDL levels may increase colon cancer risk by promoting systemic inflammation. High HDL has been linked in previous studies to high levels of proteins that prevent inflammation.