Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer. Beginning at age 50, anyone with an average risk should be screened for this disease. If there is a family history of this type of cancer, your doctor will probably want to do this screening earlier. You may also have a higher risk if you have a personal history of colorectal polyps or chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
Many people believe that colorectal cancer affects men more than women, but in fact, it is just as common among women as men. Colon cancer almost always starts with a small growth called a polyp. This can be removed by a doctor if detected early. If colon cancer does develop, it is highly treatable if found early, with a five year survival rate of 90 percent. Unfortunately, only 39 percent of cases are found at this early stage, making diagnostic testing so important.
What is the best way to prevent colon cancer? Besides screening, some lifestyle changes can help prevent this disease. Physically active adults are half as likely to develop colon cancer, making regular exercise a vital component of a prevention program. Cutting down on red meat is also important, as eating one serving per day of red meat is associated with a 50 percent increase in risk. You can also reduce your risk by eating more vegetables, not smoking, limiting alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Many people believe that colorectal cancer affects men more than women, but in fact, it is just as common among women as men. Colon cancer almost always starts with a small growth called a polyp. This can be removed by a doctor if detected early. If colon cancer does develop, it is highly treatable if found early, with a five year survival rate of 90 percent. Unfortunately, only 39 percent of cases are found at this early stage, making diagnostic testing so important.
What is the best way to prevent colon cancer? Besides screening, some lifestyle changes can help prevent this disease. Physically active adults are half as likely to develop colon cancer, making regular exercise a vital component of a prevention program. Cutting down on red meat is also important, as eating one serving per day of red meat is associated with a 50 percent increase in risk. You can also reduce your risk by eating more vegetables, not smoking, limiting alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight.
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