HEAL
Understanding risks for colon cancer
The
risk of colorectal cancer increases as you age. But finding and removing benign
colorectal polyps in their early stages is key to prevention. Colorectal cancer
is highly preventable because most of these cancers develop slowly, in stages,
starting in a benign colon polyp.
Although
there are reports that some people are getting colon cancer at even younger
ages, the general guideline is to start screening at age 50 and perhaps sooner,
if you carry some added risk factors. Risk factors for developing colorectal
cancer may include:
- personal
history of colon polyps or colon cancer
- strong
family history of colorectal cancer
- personal
history of inflammatory bowel disease affecting the colon (ulcerative colitis
or Crohn's colitis)
- family
history of genetic colon cancer syndromes (for example Lynch syndrome) or
polyposis syndromes
Also
using tobacco, being overweight, eating a diet high in fat (red meats) and low
in fiber as well as not getting enough exercise can increase your risk of
developing colorectal cancer.
To
promote colon health eat a diet low in fat and high in fiber. Also include 5-9
servings of fruits and vegetables per day along with whole grains. Consider
talking with your doctor about the benefits of taking aspirin daily. Studies
show a daily aspirin can reduce the risk of colorectal polyps and cancer.
Making
healthy choices, especially at a young age, can make a big difference in your
overall health and risk of developing colorectal cancer.
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