British scientists believe that a few lifestyle adjustments would substantially decrease colorectal cancer risk, particularly among men.

Based on the analysis of published studies, the researchers, led by Professor Donald Maxwell Parkin of Cancer Research UK Centre for Epidemiology, Mathematics and Statistics in London, made projections to estimate how “reasonable” lifestyle changes would affect future rates of colorectal cancer.

They suggested five basic changes, including consumption of no more than 90 grams of red and processed meat per day, at least five portions of fruit, vegetables and fiber daily, and at least 30 minutes of exercise five or more days per week.

The researchers also found that the optimal alcohol consumption should not exceeded 21 units per week for men and 15 units for women, while overweight and obesity should ideally be reduced to the level of 20 years ago.

If such changes were implemented, the scientists concluded, the number of cases of colorectal cancer in the UK would decrease by 26 percent overall. This would include 31.5 percent fewer cases of the cancer in men and 18.4 percent fewer cases in women.

The analysis was presented in the May issue of the European Journal of Cancer Prevention.