March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, which makes it the best time to talk about something that affects thousands of families every year: colon cancer.
Colon cancer prevention matters, and the sooner you understand your risk, the more power you have to reduce it. Many risk factors of colon cancer are within your control, and research shows that diet and lifestyle choices can significantly reduce your risk of developing colon cancer.
At Consultants in Gastroenterology, we believe prevention starts with clarity.
To help you quickly access reliable information, we’ve answered the most common questions about diet, lifestyle, and colon cancer screening below.
Answers to Common Questions About Colon Cancer Prevention
Q: What is colon cancer?
Colon cancer (also called colorectal cancer) begins in the large intestine. It often starts as small growths called polyps that may develop into cancer over time. When detected early, colon cancer is highly treatable. That’s why prevention and screening are so important.
Q: What increases your risk of colon cancer?
You may have a higher risk if you:
- Are over age 45: Over 90% of cases occur in people 45 or older, though diagnoses in younger people are increasing.
- Have a family history of colon cancer: A first-degree relative (parent, sibling, child) with colorectal cancer increases risk.
- Consume a poor diet: High intake of red meats (beef, pork), processed meats (hot dogs, lunch meats), and sugar increases risk.
- Lead a sedentary lifestyle: Inactivity is also a significant risk factor for colon cancer.
- Smoke or drink alcohol excessively: Tobacco use and heavy alcohol consumption are linked to a higher risk.
- Have obesity: Being overweight or obese increases risk for both men and women.
- Have inflammatory bowel disease: Long-term ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease can cause a higher risk of colon cancer.
While you can’t control genetics, you can control many lifestyle factors. Early, regular screening is crucial as symptoms often appear only in advanced stages.
Q: How does diet affect colon cancer risk?
Diet plays a major role in colon health.
Here are the types of food you should limit:
- Red meat
- Processed meats
- Excess sugar
- Highly processed foods
Here’s what you should increase:
- Fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes)
- Leafy greens
- Foods rich in antioxidants
- Omega-3 fatty acids
Fiber is especially important because it helps regulate digestion and reduces the time harmful substances stay in the colon.
Q: What lifestyle changes reduce colon cancer risk?
Maintain a healthy weight: Excess body fat increases inflammation and hormone imbalances that may contribute to cancer development.
Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
Limit alcohol intake: Always remember, moderation is key.
Quit smoking: Smoking increases the risk of many cancers, including colon cancer.
Stay up to date on colon cancer screening: Screening can detect polyps before they become cancerous. Schedule your colon cancer screening with Consultants in Gastroenterology.
Q: When should you get screened?
Most adults should begin colon cancer screening at age 45. However, if you have a family history or higher risk factors, you may need screening earlier. A colonoscopy is one of the most effective preventive tools because it can remove precancerous polyps during the procedure.
Don’t Wait for Symptoms
Colon cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Prevention starts with awareness and action. If you’re due for screening or want to discuss your personal risk factors, the team at Consultants in Gastroenterology is here to help you create a prevention plan tailored to you. Schedule an appointment today.