(BlackDoctor.org) — Screening for colon cancer is a very important prevention factor. Some colon cancers develop from benign polyps. Discovering these polyps early through a sigmoidoscopy or a colonoscopy and having them removed may help prevent colon cancer. Additionally, if evidence of colon cancer is found early, it is one of the most preventable and curable types of cancer.
Some dietary changes might be helpful. Lowering fat, calorie content, and meat and alcohol consumption may also help prevent colon cancer. A sedentary (not very physically active) lifestyle combined with a diet high in saturated fats could contribute to colon cancer risk. Research also suggests that smoking cessation, use of aspirin, decreased alcohol use, exercise, and dietary supplements can also reduce colon cancer risk.
In brief, making the following lifestyle changes can help prevent colon cancer, and lead to a healthier life:
- Get five servings of vegetables, fruits and whole grains a day for fiber, calcium and folic acid
- Limit red meat and saturated fat
- Exercise five days a week for at least half an hour
- Quit smoking
- Avoid alcohol
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Take aspirin — one or two baby aspirins a day have been shown to significantly reduce risk of colorectal cancer
