Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the colon or rectum.
It is the third most common cancer in men and women in the United States, and it is estimated that over 100,000 new cases will be diagnosed in 2022 alone.
However, the good news is that colon cancer is largely preventable. With the right strategies and lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing this type of cancer.
In this article, we will discuss the best ways to prevent colon cancer.
Get Screened
One of the most effective ways to prevent colon cancer is to get screened regularly. Screening tests can detect precancerous polyps, which can be removed before they become cancerous.
According to the American Cancer Society, people at average risk of colon cancer should start getting screened at age 45.
People at higher risk, such as those with a family history of colon cancer, may need to start screening earlier or get screened more frequently.
There are several types of screening tests, including colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and stool tests. Your doctor can help you determine which test is best for you based on your age, risk factors, and other factors.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing colon cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society, people who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of colon cancer than those who are at a healthy weight.
To maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet that is low in saturated and trans fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Be sure to also get regular exercise, which can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of colon cancer.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet is important for overall health and can also help reduce your risk of colon cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society, a healthy diet should be rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in red and processed meats.
You should also limit your intake of alcohol and sugary drinks, which have been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.
Get Regular Exercise
Regular exercise can help reduce your risk of colon cancer. Exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight and improve your overall health.
According to the American Cancer Society, adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise each week.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is a leading cause of many types of cancer, including colon cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, smokers are more likely to develop colon cancer than nonsmokers.
If you smoke, quit as soon as possible. Your doctor can help you develop a plan to quit smoking.
Limit Alcohol Intake
Drinking alcohol has been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society, men should have no more than two alcoholic drinks per day, and women should have no more than one alcoholic drink per day.
Consider Aspirin
Some studies have shown that taking aspirin regularly can help reduce the risk of colon cancer.
However, aspirin can have side effects, such as bleeding and stomach ulcers. Talk to your doctor about whether aspirin is right for you.
Know Your Family History
If you have a family history of colon cancer, you may be at a higher risk of developing the disease.
Talk to your doctor about your family history and whether you need to start screening earlier or get screened more frequently.
In conclusion, colon cancer is largely preventable.
By getting screened regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, considering aspirin, and knowing your family history, it is possible to prevent colon cancer effectively.
If you care about nutrition, please read studies that whole grain foods could help increase longevity, and vitamin D supplements strongly reduce cancer death.
For more information about nutrition, please see recent studies about plant nutrient that could help reduce high blood pressure, and these antioxidants could help reduce dementia risk.
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