Every year, close to 137,000 people are diagnosed with colon cancer in the United States alone. Of the 137,000 people that are diagnosed, well over 50,000 pass away as a result of having had the disease.
These numbers can be frightening. But, the good news is that the medical industry has seen the number of colon cancer cases drop since the mid-1980s.
This decline in colon cancer cases is largely due to people becoming more informed about the disease, and taking preventable measures to decrease their chances of being diagnosed.
If you are looking for ways you can lower your risk of getting colon cancer, continue reading the tips below.
What Is Colon Cancer?
Lets first understand what colon cancer is.
Colon cancer or colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that can develop over the course of a few years.
Colon cancer typically starts off as a small non-cancerous polyp (growth) within your large intestine that if left untreated could turn into colon cancer.
Symptoms of Colon Cancer
Here are a few signs to look for if you are worried that you or a loved one might have colon cancer:
- Consistent pain in your abdominal region
- Blood in your feces
- Bright red blood coming from your rectum
- Random and rapid weight loss
- Weakness
- Fatigue
Although these are all symptoms of colon cancer, never try to self-diagnose. Seek medical attention immediately, so that you can be sure and start treatment if necessary.
Colon Cancer Prevention
There isn’t anything you can do to 100% avoid getting colon cancer, as most cancers are said to be hereditary.
However, there are steps you can take to greatly lower your chances of being diagnosed.
Keeping a Healthy Diet
Maintaining a healthy diet is essential to fight off most diseases, including colon cancer.
Be mindful of the amount of red and processed meat you consume as well. Studies have shown that people who consumed larger amounts of processed and red meats had a 20% higher chance of developing colon cancer.
Lowering the amount of sugar you ingest is also a healthy change you can make to your diet to support a healthy digestive system.
Know Your Risk
Having knowledge about your family’s history with certain medical conditions is key to preventative treatment.
Once you have gathered information regarding the history of your family’s health, you can find a trusted doctor who can assist you in determining your risk of contracting certain diseases–such as colon cancer.
Avoid Smoking and Consuming Too Much Alcohol
It should come as no surprise that smoking greatly increases your chances of getting all types of cancers.
Avoid smoking, or begin taking steps to quit if you want to lower your chances of developing most cancers including cancer of the colon.
Remember to also watch the amount of alcohol you consume as many alcohols have sugar. As mentioned previously, too much sugar isn’t good for your digestive system and can aid in the growth of cancerous cells within your body.
Start Now
Take these tips and begin preventative measures today to lower your chances of getting colon cancer.
We are here to help if you have any questions. Start by booking an appointment today.