Residents of the Xiangshan Island region share similar dietary and lifestyle characteristics. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the incidence of colorectal polyps and dietary protein patterns in this population, with a focus on the effects of red meat and plant-based protein intake. A total of 1500 residents aged 18–75 years from the Xiangshan Island region who underwent colonoscopy were enrolled. General demographic data, lifestyle habits, and dietary questionnaire responses were collected. All participants underwent colonoscopy and histopathological diagnosis of polyps. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between dietary factors and the occurrence of colorectal polyps. High-frequency consumption of red meat significantly increased the risk of colorectal polyps (OR = 11.454, 95% CI: 3.669–35.755, P < 0.001). High-frequency consumption of plant-based proteins such as soy products was also associated with a markedly higher incidence of polyps (OR = 3.458, 95% CI: 1.493–8.010, P = 0.004). In contrast, egg and fruit intake showed no significant association with polyp occurrence (P > 0.05 for both). After adjusting for confounding factors, general demographic and lifestyle variables such as age, sex, smoking, and alcohol consumption were not significantly associated with polyp incidence (P > 0.05). The occurrence of colorectal polyps in the Xiangshan Island region is closely related to dietary patterns. Frequent consumption of red meat is a major risk factor, whereas adequate intake of plant-based foods may offer some protective effects. The findings suggest reducing red meat intake, balancing animal and plant protein sources, and increasing dietary fiber to help prevent colorectal polyps and colorectal cancer.

Jian Chen, Zhihao Kang, Lingzhi Wang, Cainv Ma, Jibo Shi. Incidence of Colorectal Polyps and Its Association with Dietary Patterns in the Xiangshan Island Region. Frontiers in Medical Science Research (2025), Vol. 7, Issue 5: 95-102. https://doi.org/10.25236/FMSR.2025.070511.

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