Introduction An increasing trends of colorectal (CRC) morbidity and mortality across developed countries is observed. Epidemiological studies showed that majority of those cases are due to improper diet. The results on colorectal risk modification by dietary factors in central Europe are scarce. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the role of calcium, phosphorus and polysaccharides intake on colorectal cancer risk in Poland.

Methods The hospital-based case-control study was carried out in Poland in 2000–2010. In total, 637 histologically confirmed cancer cases and 874 controls were recruited. Information about frequency and quantity of consumption of 148 alimentary items and numerous confounders was gathered by questionnaire.

Results After adjustment, increase consumption of calcium was associated with decreased risk of colorectal cancer (OR=0.59, 95% CI 0.41 to 0.86). Similar change in risk was observed with increased consumption of phosphorus (OR=0.58, 95% CI 0.44 to 0.75). On the other hand, an increasing risk of CRC with increasing consumption of polysaccharides was observed (in quartiles: ORs: 1.20, 1.39, 1.56, respectively).

Conclusions The results of the present study support the protective role of high intake of calcium and phosphorus in the aetiology of colorectal cancer. Additionally they suggest that high consumption of polysaccharides may lead to elevated risk of CRC.