DIET AND CANCER MORTALITY IN THE COUNTIES OF SWEDEN

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Abstract
The association between standardized cancer mortality rate ratios from 1969–1978 and dietary practices was examined in an ecologic study of the 24 counties of Sweden by means of several independent data sources. The study supports the hypothesis that a high intake of cereal fiber protects against colorectal cancer (r = −0.75 for males and r = −0.67 for females). This study found no association between fat intake and colorectal cancer. However, a negative correlation between milk consumption and this type of cancer was found. A suggested hypothesis is that calcium protects against colorectal cancer, since milk is the major source for calcium intake in Sweden. This could indicate that, for societies with a high fat intake, preventive measures which increase the intake of fiber and milk or calcium might have a greater impact on mortality from cancer of the colon and rectum than would a moderate decrease in the intake of fat. There are no indications in this study that fat intake promotes breast cancer.