Colorectal cancer, also known as bowel cancer and colon cancer, is the development of cancer from the colon or rectum (parts of the large intestine). It is the third leading cause of cancer death around the world. Though especially common in the older individuals, there has been a rising incidence of colorectal cancer among younger people in recent years.
A bad lifestyle has much to do with the incidence of colorectal cancer. We here offer some easy and effective ways that can help lower your risk for colorectal cancer.
Get screened for colorectal cancer
An early screening plays a vital role in the cure and survival of the patients with colorectal cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends colorectal cancer testing starting at age 50 for most people. It usually takes a few years for colorectal cancer to develop from the abnormal tissue into cancerous tissue. Doing a Fecal Occult Blood test that can be used to detect hidden blood in the stool to identify a possible colorectal cancer can reduce 25% of colorectal cancer deaths. Alternatively, colonoscopy can be used to detect and remove pterygium or tumors.
A rainbow diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber
Studies have found that people who develop plant-based dietary habit are 50 percent less likely to suffer from colorectal cancer. The more colors a diet the better: a rainbow diet with at least 5 kinds of fruits and vegetables each day is advisable for prevent colorectal cancer. Food like spinach, broccoli, tree nuts and whole grains contain rich a variety of vitamins, minerals and fiber, which can help you stay away from colorectal cancer.
Eat less red meat and processed meats
In 2015 the International Agency for Research on Cancer concluded that red meat is probably (Group 2A) carcinogenic to humans, and reported that for each additional 100g (up to a maximum of approximately 140g) of red meat consumed per day, the risk of colorectal cancer increased by 17%. Similarly, process meats are classified as a Group 1, carcinogenic to humans. When you have no idea about what to eat next time, just leave out the meats like beef, pork and hot dogs.
Quit cigarettes and limit alcohol
Cigarettes are known to produce dozens of carcinogens that can spread over and harm body organs through blood circulation, thus increasing the chance of developing various cancer types, lung cancer and colorectal cancer included. Also, alcohol is also responsible for the incidence of colorectal cancer. Japanese researchers found in a study that people who drink more than 1 bottle of beer each day have 1.5 times higher risk of developing colorectal cancer than those who do not drink. Quitting cigarettes and alcohol can be a top priority for patients with colorectal cancer.
Get regular exercise
A number of studies have shown that regular excise can reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer by about 20%. This is because doing physical activities can promote gastrointestinal movement and facilitate defecation, which helps excrete carcinogens to prevent colorectal cancer. Meanwhile, Being physically active reduces the chance of being overweight or obese which is linked to the development of colorectal cancer. Individuals are usually advised to exercise 3 times a week, 30 minutes each time.