Many studies have demonstrated a significant association between obesity and the risk of developing diverticulitis. In a large prospective study of 47,228 male health professionals, men with a body mass index (BMI) of at least 30 kg/m2 had a relative risk of 1.78 for diverticulitis compared with men with a BMI less than 21 kg/m2, after adjustment for other risk factors.
Dietary fiber is associated with a decreased risk for symptomatic diverticular disease. A diet high in total fat and red meat is associated with an increased risk. Current smokers appear to be at increased risk for perforated diverticulitis and a diverticular abscess, compared with nonsmokers.
For more on the risk factors for diverticulitis, read here.
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Cite this: Jaime Shalkow. Fast Five Quiz: How Much Do You Know About Diverticulitis? - Medscape - May 09, 2016.
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