Fight Colorectal Cancer : Lifestyle Changes for Prevention
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the USA, excluding skin cancers. While overall rates of people being diagnosed with colorectal cancer have decreased each year, young people are developing colorectal cancer at higher rates than ever before.
Nutrition plays a critical role in prevention and treatment. The foods you consume and the lifestyle you lead impact your cancer risk levels and your body's ability to prevent cancer.
Some cancer research studies have found that people who eat right, get regular physical activity, maintain a healthy weight and limit alcohol consumption can cut their odds of colorectal disease by more than a third.
So, in this post, we will look at some proven strategies and habits that can help in colorectal cancer prevention.
What is Colorectal Cancer ?
Colorectal cancer occurs due to changes in your genetic material (DNA), also known as mutations or variants. These genetic changes can happen during your lifetime, and the exact cause is unknown.
However, some genetic changes that increase the risk of colorectal cancer are inherited, meaning they are present from birth. Apart from genetics, other factors such as lifestyle and the environment can also influence your risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Key Facts on Colorectal Cancer
As per the report of World Health Organization (WHO) : -
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide, accounting for approximately 10% of all cancer cases, and it is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally.
It primarily affects older individuals, with the majority of cases occurring in people aged 50 and above.
Several lifestyle factors contribute to the development of colorectal cancer, such as a high intake of processed meats and a low intake of fruits and vegetables, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.
What Causes Colorectal Cancer ?
Colorectal cancer occurs due to changes in your genetic material (DNA), also known as mutations or variants. These genetic changes can happen during your lifetime, and the exact cause is unknown.
However, some genetic changes that increase the risk of colorectal cancer are inherited, meaning they are present from birth. Apart from genetics, other factors such as lifestyle and the environment can also influence your risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Who is More Prone to Have Colorectal Cancer ?
Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer, including : -
The risk of colorectal cancer tends to increase with age.
If you or your family members have had colorectal cancer, your risk may be higher.
Adenomas are abnormal growths in the colon and rectum that can potentially develop into cancer over time.
Conditions such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome can elevate the risk of colorectal cancer.
Conditions like ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, especially if you've had them for 8 years or more, can increase the risk.
Consuming three or more alcoholic drinks per day and smoking cigarettes can elevate the risk.
Being obese is also associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
Major Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer might not always exhibit symptoms, especially in the early stages. However, if symptoms do occur, they may include : -
- Persistent change in bowel habits, such as : -
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Feeling of incomplete bowel movements
- Narrow or different-shaped stools
- Presence of blood (bright red or very dark) in the stool
- Frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness, or cramps.
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
Lifestyle Changes for Colorectal Cancer Prevention
( A ) Nutritional Practices
- 1. Reduce the Consumption of Processed Foods
- 2. Increase Your Fiber Intake
- 3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Reduce your intake of processed meats such as sausages, bacon, and ham, as well as red meats like beef and lamb. Instead, focus on healthier protein sources like lentils, beans, chicken, and fish.
Eating a lot of processed and red meat has been linked to a higher chance of getting colorectal cancer due to the addition of nitrates and nitrites in processed meats and harmful chemicals formed during high-temperature cooking of red meat.
Fiber not only promotes a healthy gut environment but also shortens the time that harmful compounds are in contact with the colon lining during digestion.
Consuming fiber can help dilute and remove potential carcinogens from the colon, and also supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which can contribute to the prevention of colorectal cancer.
Obesity is a known risk factor for various cancers, including colorectal cancer. Hormonal imbalances and chronic inflammation associated with excess body fat can promote cancer growth.
Keeping a healthy weight can lower insulin levels and inflammation, thereby impacting the risk of cancer.
( B ) Lifestyle Practices
- 1. Stay Physically Active
- 2. Limit Alcohol Intake
- 3. Avoid Smoking
Regular exercise reduces inflammation in the body, supports intestinal health, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Exercise lowers inflammation and helps regulate insulin levels, both of which can affect the risk of cancer.
Consuming too much alcohol increases the risk of colorectal cancer. Alcohol can damage the colon's lining and hinder nutrient absorption. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to inflammation and intestinal irritation.
Smoking is one of the main risk factors for many cancers, including colorectal cancer. Smoking weakens the immune system and damages the body's cells.
Smoking weakens the body's defenses against cancer development and exposes the colon to harmful carcinogens.
Final Verdict : Colon Cancer Prevention
Colorectal cancer is a significant health challenge, but you can greatly reduce your risk of developing this disease by making simple lifestyle changes. Focus on maintaining a healthy diet, a healthy weight, staying physically active, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. These proactive steps can help in prevention.
Additionally, regular colorectal cancer screening and awareness of family history can further empower individuals in managing their health effectively. It's essential to consult with the best oncology doctors near me for personalized advice and guidance when making any health-related decisions.
Schedule Your Online Oncologist Consultation with MYiDocUSA
Looking for expert guidance and support in managing your risk of colorectal cancer? Schedule your first online cancer doctor consultation with Dr. Muhammad Raza at MYiDocUSA.
As the top telehealth & telemedicine clinic in USA, our team of experienced oncologists can provide personalized advice and support tailored to your individual needs.
So, what are you waiting for?
Book an online consultation with oncologists at MYiDocUSA and ensure you are on the right path to colorectal cancer prevention. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against cancer.