Are you at risk for colon cancer? Colon and rectal cancer are the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancers and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Although colon cancer tends to run in certain families, it appears that 75% of people who develop it have no family history. diseases Wouldn’t it be nice if there were some simple measures we could take to help prevent colon cancer? Fortunately, there are several effective colon cancer prevention strategies:
1. Eat a healthy diet.
Studies have shown that people who eat a diet high in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains have a lower risk. colon cancer Other studies have shown that limiting red meat and practicing a lean or vegan diet can prevent colon cancer. Previous studies have supported the role of a high-fiber diet in colon cancer prevention, although recent studies have been equivocal.
2. Consider calcium and vitamin D supplements.
It appears that calcium and vitamin D work together to help lower your risk of colon cancer. Surprisingly enough, the greatest reduction in risk was seen in those who received calcium and vitamin D supplements than those who did not. high level of food. People who took a 1,000 mg calcium supplement had their colon cancer risk reduced by about 30%. The researchers found that vitamin D was protective in men, but not in women. It appears that more studies are needed to determine the best dose of each supplement to take to prevent colon cancer.
3. Consider taking an aspirin or NSAID regularly.
Studies have shown that people who regularly use aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as Motrin and Advil have about a 30% lower risk of colon cancer. Although these drugs are effective in preventing colon cancer, they are not without side effects, which can include intestinal bleeding and other gastrointestinal problems, which limit their use in colon cancer. For this reason, it is important to consult your doctor before starting any of these drugs.
4. Get out and exercise!
And another useful exercise! Studies show that individuals who exercise regularly can reduce their risk of colon cancer. The American Cancer Society today recommends at least 30 minutes of sustained exercise at least 5 days a week.
Studies have shown that obese women are twice as likely to develop colorectal cancer as women who are not obese. This seems to hold particularly true for women who have significant abdominal obesity. Large waist measurements and waist-to-hip ratios also appear to be associated with an increased risk of colon cancer in both men and women. Take home the message? More exercise and less eating!
6. Get the cancer colon covered.
This is the most important way to prevent colon cancer of all. Cancers arise from the formation of abnormal cells. It can take 10 years or more for those cells to develop into a full-blown cancer. With colon cancer screening through regular colonoscopes, having abnormal growths or polyps can lead to cancer before they become a problem. How often do you object? Individuals who have no known risk factors for colon cancer should colonize starting at age 50. It’s one of the best colon cancer prevention measures you can take!
As you can see, there are several lifestyle changes you can make to prevent colon cancer. Why not get started on a colon cancer prevention program today?
