Reducing your risk
While colon cancer can affect anyone, it’s one cancer that is preventable. You can greatly reduce your risk of developing colon cancer by getting screened regularly and making certain healthy lifestyle choices.
Starting at age 50, be screened regularly for colon cancer. Learn more about screening options here.
If you have a personal or family history of cancer or colorectal polyps, or a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, talk to your healthcare provider about being screened earlier.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet, one that’s low in fat and rich in fruits, vegetables (especially green, leafy vegetables) and whole grains, contributes to your health, and your colon’s health. A daily multi-vitamin containing .4 mg of folic acid may also be helpful in reducing your risk.
Regular exercise, at least 30 minutes four to five days a week, can reduce your risk. Even moderate exercise such as walking, gardening, or climbing supports colon health.
Smoking has been proven to increase the risk of colon cancer by 30-40%.*
If you use tobacco, quit. If you don't use tobacco, don't start.
Use Alcohol in Moderation
Drink alcohol only in moderation to lower your risk of developing colon cancer.
The power to prevent colon cancer is in your hands. Get screened and make healthy choices to keep yourself cancer-free.
*Taken from www.wdxcyber.com/coloncancer_symptoms.html
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