Greater adherence to the Mediterranean diet was associated with a modest reduction in the risk for obesity-related cancers, particularly hepatocellular, kidney, and colorectal cancers, a new analysis found. The analysis also revealed that this association was independent of body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio.

"The findings of this cohort study indicate that higher adherence to the [Mediterranean diet] may slightly reduce the risk of [obesity-related cancers]," the authors wrote, adding that "even a medium adherence was associated with a small reduction in the risk of these specific cancers."

"Although our results did not suggest mediation through overweight and obesity, more studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms through which higher adherence to the [Mediterranean diet] might potentially reduce cancer risk," the authors said.

The study, led by Inmaculada Aguilera-Buenosvinos, PhD, Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Navarra in Pamplona, Spain, was published online on February 25 in JAMA Network Open.

The study relied on data taken only at baseline, potentially missing changes over time. The Mediterranean diet adherence score may not fully capture the complexity of dietary patterns, particularly in non-Mediterranean populations. Additionally, self-reported anthropometric data, including weight, height, and waist and hip circumferences information, for some participants could have introduced bias.

The study received support through grants from the Instituto de Salud Carlos III and the Wellcome Trust. Additional support came from various national organizations across participating countries, including the Danish Cancer Society, Ligue Contre le Cancer, German Cancer Aid, and others. One author reported receiving grants from the Health Research Fund-Instituto de Salud Carlos III during the conduct of the study.