Emerging research shows microbial imbalance in the digestive tract may influence colorectal cancer risk, prompting experts to highlight practical prevention steps.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Scientists and colorectal specialists are increasingly examining how the bacteria that inhabit the human digestive tract may influence the development and progression of colorectal cancer, while emphasizing that everyday habits can play a measurable role in shaping those microbial communities.
“Supporting the gut microbiome can help reduce colorectal cancer risk and may even enhance prevention and treatment,” Sachin Aryal, a gut microbiome researcher at the University of Toledo, told The Epoch Times.
Researchers say the colon is uniquely exposed to microbial activity, placing it at the center of investigations into how bacterial balance affects inflammation, immune function, and long-term cancer risk.
“We’re learning that the bacteria in the gut matter more than we used to think,” Dr. Cedrek McFadden, a colorectal surgeon and medical advisor to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, said.
According to McFadden, gut microbes are not passive occupants. They interact directly with the lining of the colon and influence immune signaling and inflammatory responses. When the microbial environment shifts out of balance—a condition known as dysbiosis—certain bacteria may generate substances that irritate the colon lining or sustain low-level inflammation over time.
Because the colon is in constant contact with these microbial by-products, colorectal tumors appear to be more directly influenced by microbiome changes than many other cancers, though researchers note that microbial activity may affect other malignancies indirectly.
“It’s not that one bacterium causes cancer,” McFadden said. “It’s more about the overall balance and what the colon is being exposed to day after day.”
Persistent imbalance may also weaken the intestinal barrier, sometimes described as “leaky gut,” allowing bacteria and their by-products to move beyond the intestinal lining and trigger ongoing immune activation. Researchers say that sustained inflammation can lead to oxidative stress and DNA damage in colon cells, potentially increasing the likelihood of abnormal growth.
The microbiome’s influence extends beyond tumor formation. Scientists have observed that differences in gut bacteria may help explain why patients respond differently to identical cancer treatments, particularly therapies that rely on immune activation.
Several microbial species have been repeatedly associated with colorectal cancer in published studies, including Fusobacterium nucleatum, enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis, Enterococcus faecalis, and certain strains of E. coli, Aryal said. Fusobacterium nucleatum has been detected in higher concentrations in tumor tissue compared with healthy colon tissue and has been linked to inflammatory signaling.
At the same time, Aryal cautioned that researchers continue to investigate whether such microbes act as direct drivers of cancer or flourish in tumor environments after cancer has already developed.
Beyond the presence of specific bacteria, scientists are also studying microbial by-products—some of which may protect the colon, while others promote inflammation or DNA damage.
“This is why the microbiome is becoming an increasingly important part of conversations around early detection, prevention, and personalized cancer therapy,” Aryal said.
Specialists stress that the composition of the gut microbiome is not fixed and can be influenced by diet, physical activity, and other lifestyle factors.
Aryal said diets rich in dietary fiber—such as those including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, fermented foods, and prebiotic or probiotic sources—support greater microbial diversity and a colon environment less favorable to tumor development. Mediterranean-style eating patterns, which emphasize plant-based foods and healthy fats, are often cited as particularly beneficial for microbial balance.
Targeted supplements may also play a role. Faecalibacterium, studied in animal models, has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects and protection against colitis. Certain Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains may help reinforce the intestinal lining and support normal cellular function, especially among individuals with a history of polyps.
“When probiotics and prebiotics are used together as synbiotics, they help reduce inflammatory mediators and create a gut environment less favorable for tumor development,” Aryal said.
Researchers emphasize that supplement types and dosages vary and recommend consultation with a healthcare provider before use.
Physical activity also appears to support microbial health. Aryal noted that regular exercise increases microbial diversity, enhances production of short-chain fatty acids, and reduces inflammation—all factors associated with colon health.
McFadden said prevention strategies do not require complicated regimens.
“Eat real food more often. Get fiber in your diet. Cut back on heavily processed foods when you can and don’t chase supplements or trends,” he said.
He added that consistency matters more than perfection, citing balanced meals, physical activity, adequate sleep, and stress management as practical measures individuals can maintain over time.
“I’m not perfect, and I don’t expect my patients to be either. I just try to be consistent most of the time.”
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