Colorectal cancer, ranking as the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths globally, has garnered increased attention from researchers focusing on the intricate involvement of the intestinal microbiota in both preventing and treating this disease. Scientific evidence emphasizes the delicate equilibrium among various bacterial species in the human gut.  

A review by Toumazi and Constantinou (2020) discusses how disruptions tipping the balance towards heightened levels of specific bacterial species such as Fusobacterium nucleatum and Bacteroides fragilis release toxins and spark inflammation thereby accelerating tumorigenesis and increasing the risk of colorectal cancer. Conversely, bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium play a protective role against colorectal cancer by increasing the levels of anticarcinogenic metabolites and decreasing inflammation and carcinogenesis. While initial studies show promise in using probiotics for preventing and managing colorectal cancer, further research is crucial for deeper understanding and practical application.

Key Message: The correlation between the intestinal microbiota, diet, and colorectal cancer is a dynamic area of research, promising potential applications of probiotics in preventing and managing this significant disease.