Abstract
Although superficially persuasive, claims suggesting a causal link between Blastocystis and colorectal cancer (CRC) lack robust scientific support. As Blastocystis is the most common gut protist found in human populations globally, its detection in CRC patients is unsurprising and does not imply pathogenicity. Current claims championing a causal role for Blastocystis in CRC are based on speculative correlations, a single poorly controlled animal study, and inconsistent subtype associations. We argue that linking Blastocystis to CRC is premature, misleading, and may give rise to unnecessary concern in patients that are colonised by or test positive for Blastocystis. We emphasise the need for rigorously designed investigations to establish causal roles for any microorganism in disease and the importance of conclusions being based on solid evidence, particularly in matters of public health.
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Framework Programme for Research & Innovation as part of the COST Action [CA21105], as supported by the COST Association (European Cooperation in Science and Technology). (Blastocystis under One Health).
The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
