Global, regional, and national burden of disease associated with low-fiber dietary patterns for colorectal cancer from 1990 to 2021: A systematic analysis for the global burden of disease 2021.

Low-fiber diets are a known risk factor for colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the burden of CRC associated with low-fiber intake across regions and age groups remains unclear. This study assesses the global, regional, and national burden of CRC due to low-fiber diets from 1990 to 2021. Using data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021, we applied comparative risk models to estimate CRC mortality and disability-adjusted life years associated with low-fiber diets across regions, age groups, and countries. The analysis showed significant disparities in CRC burden due to low-fiber diets. Low- and middle-income regions, particularly populations over 50 years old, bore the highest burden. The global burden has increased over time, particularly in regions undergoing dietary transitions. Targeted dietary interventions to increase fiber intake are essential to reduce the global CRC burden. Policymakers should focus on high-risk regions and populations to mitigate this preventable health issue.

Copyright © 2026 the Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.