Impact of lifestyle and mental health on colorectal adenomas in China: a prospective cross-sectional survey

Background Colorectal adenomas, which are precancerous lesions that can develop into colorectal cancer, present a significant challenge due to the lack of comprehensive early screening and clear identification of risk factors.Objectives We conduct a double-blind, prospective cross-sectional analysis to examine the relationship between lifestyle, mental health, and colorectal adenomas.Methods Between June 2023 and July 2024, we surveyed 246 participants at Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Wuhan using a self-administered online questionnaire.Results The majority of participants were over the age of 50 (49.6%), married or living with a partner (87.08%), and employed as office workers or technicians (44.3%). Among the total population, 435 individuals (53.5%) were diagnosed with colorectal adenomas. A significant positive association was observed between being a manager (OR = 2.340; 95% CI = 1.043-5.248) and the presence of colorectal adenomas, as well as having a BMI over 28 (OR = 6.000; 95% CI = 1.501-23.991). After adjusting for professional role and BMI, no significant associations were found between scores on the HADS-D (AOR = 1.031; 95% CI = 0.967-1.099) or PSS-10 (AOR = 0.971; 95% CI = 0.923-1.022) scales and colorectal adenomas. However, higher scores on the AUDIT (AOR = 1.001-1.144), CDS-12 (AOR = 1.028; 95% CI = 1.003-1.054), PSQI (AOR = 1.079; 95% CI = 1.003-1.161), and HADS-A (AOR = 1.156; 95% CI = 1.059-1.262) scales were significantly associated with an increased likelihood of colorectal adenomas.Conclusion The study highlights the significance of addressing alcohol consumption, smoking, sleep quality, and anxiety to reduce the risk of colorectal adenomas. Targeted mental health interventions may play a crucial role in alleviating this health burden and enhancing overall population health.