Can probiotic-rich yogurt help prevent colorectal cancer in humans?

•Yogurt consumption is linked to 20-40% lower colorectal cancer risk, especially proximal colon tumors with high Bifidobacterium levels.•Probiotics modulate gut microbiota, reduce inflammation, and produce protective metabolites against cancer development.•Bifidobacterium strains in yogurt suppress tumor growth through various signaling and immune pathway regulation.•Early screening age reduction and increased fiber intake are recommended for enhanced colorectal cancer prevention.•Probiotic therapy shows promise for reducing treatment side effects and improving patient quality of life.