Screening is great for early diagnosis and early diagnosis improves the probability of successful treatment. However, disease prevention always trumps disease screening.
Colorectal Cancers
Colorectal cancers are cancers that occur in digestive tract, either in the large intestines or the rectum. According to the National Cancer Institute:
- Over 150, 000 Americans will be diagnosed with a colorectal cancer
- Over 50,000 Americans will die from a colorectal cancer
Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors
Non-modifiable Risk Factors:
- Age over 50
- A personal history of colon cancer
- A personal history of colorectal polyps
- A personal history of inflammatory bowel diseases (e.g., ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease)
- A family history of colorectal cancer
- Ethnic background (e.g., African Americans and Ashkenazi Jews)
Modifiable Risk Factors:
- A diet high in saturated fat
- A sedentary lifestyle
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol intake
- Diabetes
Colorectal Cancer Prevention
You obviously can not change non-modifiable risk factors, so if you have any of these you should speak to your physician about starting your colorectal cancer screening before the age of 50. For some people with a family history of colorectal cancers, they should begin screening as early as puberty.
However you can change or eliminate modifiable risk factors by changing your diet, increasing your physical activity, losing weight, and/or taking certain vitamins.
Lifestyle Changes
Diet: Eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Eat less saturated fats. In other words: eat more plant-based foods and fewer animal-based foods.
Activity: The American Cancer Society recommends at least 30 minutes of physical activity on at least 5 days of the week.
Weight loss: If you are overweight and especially if you are obese, losing weight will decrease your risk of getting a colorectal cancer.
These vitamins may also decrease your risk of colorectal cancer:
- A daily multivitamin containing folic acid or folate
- Calcium with Vitamin D
- Magnesium
You can ensure adequate amounts of these vitamins through diet and/or supplementation.
Change your life today. You do not have to get a colorectal cancer.
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**Please consult your physician, registered dietitian, or certified fitness professional before starting or changing your diet or exercise program.**
