How to Prevent Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is a malignant growth in the colon. It often arises from benign polyps occurring on the lining of the colon, which is the biggest portion of the large intestine. Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers, second to only lung cancer in the United States. You can, however, work to prevent colon cancer by taking a few precautions. Changes to your diet and exercise routine, coupled with regular checkups, can help you prevent colon cancer.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Proper diet and exercise
• Computer with Internet access
• Your family's medical history
• Annual physical

Make Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Colon Cancer

1. Be active. Individuals who lead healthy lifestyles that include lots of exercise are less likely to develop colon cancer.

2. Eat healthfully. Studies show that men and women who frequently consume red meat have a higher risk of developing cancer. Make sure your diet consists mostly of whole grains, lean meats and fresh fruits and vegetables.

3. Cut back on after-dinner cocktails. While not all studies consider alcohol consumption a major risk factor for colon cancer, there are some indications that excessive alcohol use can lead to an early onset of this disease.

4. Quit smoking. Though most people associate smoking with lung and throat cancer, smokers are actually at an increased risk of developing many kinds of cancer, including colon cancer.

Make Smart Medical Decisions to Prevent Colon Cancer

5. Talk to your relatives to make sure you know your family's medical history. Take note of any surgeries or illnesses, and ask if immediate relatives have been diagnosed with colon polyps or cancer. If you have a family medical history of colon cancer, your doctor may recommend that you take more aggressive steps to prevent the disease.

6. Set up a regular screening schedule with your physician. If you fall into any of the high-risk groups or are over age 50, you should be screened at least once a year, with a colonoscopy every three to five years. The best way to prevent colon cancer is the early detection and removal of precancerous polyps.

7. Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice any symptoms that could possibly indicate colon cancer. This includes diarrhea and general fatigue, as well as blood in the stool.

8. Follow up on any tests performed by your doctor. Don't be afraid to ask for a second opinion.

Tips & Warnings

• Discuss your concerns with your doctor. As a patient, you have the right to participate in decisions about your care. Consider all alternatives before deciding on a course of action.
• Ask your doctor if he or she recommends any vitamins or over-the-counter medicines to help prevent colon cancer. New research is always popping up about the effectiveness of aspirin, vitamin B, red wine, calcium and many other common items.
• While colon cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer, fewer than 40 percent of cases are diagnosed while the disease is still localized. Once the cancer has spread, more vigorous treatment is needed, and the risks increase greatly. Proper prevention and screening are the keys to surviving this disease.
• If your family has a history of colon cancer, you may become anxious about your risk. Speak with your doctor for help dealing with the mental and emotional strain.

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[Coach4U]

on 2/25/2009 Good information.