Losing a loved one to colorectal cancer can be a devastating experience. However, there are proactive steps you can take to decrease your own risk of developing this type of cancer. Below are some preventative measures that you can take to help lower your risk.
Screening Tests
Screening tests are incredibly effective at detecting colorectal cancer early when it is most treatable. These tests can also help identify and remove polyps before they become cancerous. For adults aged 50 to 75, the CDC recommends regular screening tests. These tests include colonoscopies, fecal occult blood tests, and sigmoidoscopies. Talk to your doctor about which screening test is best for you.
Healthy Diet
A healthy diet filled with antioxidants, fiber, and other nutrients can help protect your colon from damage. Studies have shown that eating red meat, processed meat, and charred foods may increase your risk of colorectal cancer. To help reduce your risk, consider incorporating more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables into your meals. It’s also important to limit your intake of red and processed meats.
Physical Activity
Regular physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight and decrease your risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease that are linked to colorectal cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity every week.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Being overweight or obese, especially around your waist, can increase your risk of colorectal cancer by promoting inflammation and insulin resistance in your body. By making changes to your diet and increasing physical activity, you can maintain a healthy weight and decrease your risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Avoiding Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Use
Smoking and excessive alcohol use can damage your DNA and increase your risk of colorectal cancer. By quitting smoking and limiting your intake of alcohol, you can help decrease your risk of not only colorectal cancer but other types of cancer as well.
While it can be difficult to lose a loved one to colorectal cancer, know that there are steps you can take to decrease your own risk. By getting regular screening tests, maintaining a healthy diet and weight, increasing physical activity, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol use, you can take control of your health and decrease your risk of colorectal cancer.
Sources:
- Colon Cancer Prevention, Mayo Clinic
- Colorectal Cancer Guideline | How Often to Have Screening Tests, American Cancer Society