Colon cancer, also known as Colorectal cancer or CRC is the third most common cancer diagnosed in men and women in the United States. More than 140,000 Americans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and more than 50,000 die from the disease. CRC is caused by various factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and environmental exposures. While there is no one cause of colon cancer, there are many ways to reduce your risk of developing the disease.
How Do You Get Colorectal Cancer?
There is no one cause of CRC, but there are many ways to reduce your disease risk. Colon cancer can develop from various factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and environmental exposures. Some of the most common causes of colorectal cancer include:
- Poor Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables and high in red meat can increase your risk of CRC.
- Lack of Exercise: A sedentary lifestyle can increase your risk of colon cancer.
- Smoking: Smoking cigarettes can increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer.
- Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Drinking alcohol in excess can increase your risk of CRC.
- Age: Colon cancer is more common in adults over 50.
How Can You Prevent Colorectal Cancer
There are many ways to reduce your risk of developing CRC. Some of the most effective ways to prevent Colon cancer include:
- Eating a Healthy Diet: A healthy diet is essential for preventing Colorectal cancer. A diet low in fruits and vegetables and high in red meat can increase your risk of developing CRC. Eating a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can reduce your risk of Colon cancer. Some good sources of fruits and vegetables include Berries, Broccoli, Spinach, Carrots, Tomatoes, Garlic.
- Exercising Regularly: Exercising regularly is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of developing Colon cancer. Exercise helps to keep your body healthy and reduces your risk of developing other diseases, including Colorectal cancer. Exercising also helps maintain a healthy weight, which can also reduce your risk of CRC. Some good exercises to reduce your risk of Colon cancer include Running, Swimming, Cycling.
- Quitting Smoking: Smoking is one of the leading causes of Colorectal cancer. If you are a smoker, it is crucial to quit smoking to reduce your risk of CRC. There are many ways to quit smoking, and there is no one way that is right for everyone. Some people find quitting smoking easier with the help of a support group or therapy.
- Limiting Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol is a known risk factor for Colon cancer. Excessive alcohol consumption can increase your risk of colorectal cancer. It is essential to limit your alcohol intake to reduce your risk of developing the disease.
- Getting Regular Colonoscopies: Colonoscopies are an essential way to screen for Colon cancer. A Colonoscopy is a procedure that allows a doctor to look inside your Colon and rectum. This is done by inserting a long, thin tube with a camera on its end into your Colon.
- Colonoscopies allow doctors to find Colon cancer early when it is easier to treat. It is vital to get a Colonoscopy every ten years if you are over 50. If you are at a higher risk for Colon cancer, your doctor may recommend getting a Colonoscopy more often.
Colon cancer is a severe disease, but it can be prevented by making healthy lifestyle choices and getting regular screenings. If you are concerned about your risk of colorectal cancer, talk to your doctor about what you can do to reduce your risk.
Conclusion
Colon Cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States (10.7% of all cancers are Colon Cancer). Colon cancer can be caused by several factors, including hereditary genetics and lifestyle choices such as diet and exercise. Colon cancer prevention includes eating healthy, exercising regularly, not smoking or drinking alcohol excessively, and maintaining a healthy weight.