Among cancers that affect both men and women, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the US. The risk increases with age with more than 90% of colorectal cancers occurring after the age of 50. Good news! This disease is highly preventable by getting screened, beginning at the age of 50. So, after you blow out your candles, call your friendly gastroenterologist to schedule your screening colonoscopy.
What Can You do to Prevent Colon Cancer?
- Be physically active. Exercise is good for everything! Just do it!
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Don’t drink too much alcohol. Limit to 1 drink per day.
- Do not smoke.
- Eat a diet rich in vegetables and fruits.
- Limit your intake of red meat to 3-4 servings (4oz each) per week. There is an association between red meat, smoked meats and well-done meats and increased risk of colon cancer.
Cancer Res. 2010 Mar15;70(6):2406-14. doi: 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-09-3929.Epub 2010 Mar 9
So help spread the word this month! If everyone tells one friend or family member…..
