The study, led by Dr. Su Yon Jung of the University of California, Los Angeles, found that postmenopausal women who experienced accelerated epigenetic aging faced a significantly higher likelihood of developing colorectal cancer. Lifestyle factors, particularly diet, appeared to play a protective role.
Colorectal cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths globally, especially in people over 50. Yet, biological aging does not always mirror chronological age.
While two people may be the same age in years, their cells and tissues can reveal starkly different aging patterns. This study focused on epigenetic aging—a measure of biological age based on chemical modifications to DNA, specifically DNA methylation.
Researchers analyzed genetic and health data from the Women’s Health Initiative Database for Genotypes and Phenotypes (WHI-dbGaP), focusing on postmenopausal white women aged 50 to 79.
Using three established “epigenetic clocks” (Horvath’s, Hannum’s, and Levine’s), they estimated biological age from blood samples collected up to 17 years before diagnosis. Women whose biological age exceeded their chronological age were more likely to develop colorectal cancer.
Lifestyle habits strongly influenced outcomes. Women who consumed a diet rich in fruits and vegetables did not show an increased risk, even if they aged more rapidly at the cellular level. Conversely, women with accelerated epigenetic aging who also reported low fruit and vegetable intake were up to 20 times more likely to develop colorectal cancer.
Hormonal and reproductive factors also played a role. Women who had both ovaries removed before natural menopause showed higher biological aging and, when coupled with accelerated aging, an elevated risk of colorectal cancer.
The findings were validated across multiple independent datasets, reinforcing the potential of blood-based epigenetic markers as early indicators of colorectal cancer risk. Researchers emphasize that while the results are promising, larger independent studies are needed to confirm these associations.
“This research underscores the importance of both biological aging and lifestyle in shaping cancer risk,” said Dr. Jung. “Our work suggests that modifiable behaviors, like diet, may help counteract the risks associated with accelerated aging.”
The study adds to growing evidence that epigenetic markers could become valuable tools for early detection and prevention strategies, particularly in older populations. It also highlights the potential for lifestyle changes to mitigate disease risks linked to cellular aging.
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