Abstract
Abstract
In 2007 the World Cancer Research Fund published the second edition of a report covering the latest research on cancer, nutrition, physical activity and obesity. In this paper we examine the methodology and process behind the report in order to investigate how it has achieved such an authoritative position in its field. The recommendations from the report are global and could be adapted to every society throughout the world. Cancer is a continuously growing problem worldwide, and research has proven that of causal factors, the environment is among the most important. The report however, provides stronger evidence than any previous research that physical inactivity and obesity are important risk factors. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosis in the world today, and the leading form of cancer in Norway. In light of the report, we look at the Norwegian diet and our national recommendations for food and cancer. The findings of the cancer report may explain the high incidence of colorectal cancer in Norway, where we have a diet very high in red meat and low in dietary fibers and vegetables. Also, obesity is a major health problem in Norway, with 42 per cent of the adult population being overweight. Corroborating previous research, the report demonstrates the strong correlation between red meat and colorectal cancer. Furthermore, results published after the conclusion of the report cement this finding and highlight the risk factors of red meat.