One of the more common cancers in the US is colorectal cancer. At any point during their lifespan, around 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women will develop colon or rectal cancer. But there are things to help lower the risk that you can do.

• For colorectal cancer, get screened  Screenings are tests which look for cancer before the development of signs and symptoms. Sometimes, colorectal screenings can detect growths called polyps on the colon or rectum that can be removed until they develop into cancer. Such tests can also diagnose colon or rectal cancer sooner, when treatment is more likely to be successful.
• Eat plenty of greens, whole grains, and fruits  A reduced risk of colon or rectal cancer has been associated with diets that contain plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Eat less red meat (beef, pork, or lamb) and processed meats (hot dogs and some lunch meats) that are associated with an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer.
• Get periodic exercise  You could have a better risk of developing colon or rectal cancer if you are not physically involved. It can help to reduce your risk by increasing your operation.
• Watch your weight  Your chance of having and dying from colon or rectal cancer is increased by being overweight or obese. It will help you to manage your weight by eating healthy and increasing your physical activity.
• Do not smoke  Long-term smokers are more likely to develop and die from colon or rectal cancer than non-smokers. See the Guide to Quitting Tobacco from the American Cancer Society if you smoke and want to stop or know someone else who does.
• Restrict alcohol Consumption of alcohol was associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer. No more than 2 drinks a day for men and 1 drink a day for women is recommended by the American Cancer Society. 

Research indicates that diet, weight, and exercise-related activities are linked to the risk of colorectal cancer, and those ties are greater than for other cancer forms. It might be difficult to change any of these lifestyle patterns. Yet making the improvements will also minimize the risk of many other cancer types, as well as other severe diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

Risk factors you can’t change

Recent research has shown that in younger populations, new cases of colorectal cancer are growing. That's why the American Cancer Society suggests that people at average risk start screening for colorectal cancer at age 45. But some individuals have some risk factors that make them more likely to grow and get colorectal cancer at an earlier age.

A family history of colorectal cancer or pre-cancerous polyps, especially in parents, brothers and sisters, or infants, is one of these risk factors. About 1 in 3 individuals who experience colon or rectal cancer have other members of the family who have had it. Family history may also raise the risk of other colorectal problems. Inherited syndromes, such as family adenomatous polyposis or inherited polyposis, are included.

Your personal experience will impact your risk as well. For instance, if you have had pre-cancerous colon polyps in the past, you are more likely to get colon or rectal cancer. Your risk of colorectal cancer may also be increased by having other disorders, such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or type 2 diabetes. If you have any of these issues, discuss the screening option with your health care provider screening options might be best for you.

Regards,
Angelina Pearson | Managing Editor
Colorectal Cancer: Open Access
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