Colon Cancer Prevention

Colon Cancer Prevention

There are several ways to reduce your risk for colon cancer. These include:

-Maintaining a healthy weight: Obesity increases the risk of colon cancer, especially for men.

-See a doctor if you have any symptoms: Symptoms include cramps, thin stools, bloody stools and unexplained weight loss.

-Regular screening: If you are older than 50, you should get your colon screened on a regular basis.

-Maintain a balanced diet: If you eat too much animal fat, you are at a higher risk.

-Genetic counseling and knowing your family history: If you are in a higher risk group, such as Ashkenazi Jews, or if a family member has FAP or HNPCC, or has had colon cancer, then you are at a higher risk.

-Make sure your doctor knows your medical history: A history of polyps, inflammation of the bowel and other cancers put you at a higher risk.

-Stop smoking: If you smoke you are at higher risk of getting colon cancer.

-Limit radiation expsosure: Radiation exposure from sources such as x-rays, CT scans, barium enemas and even lots of airplane travel can increase the risk of colon cancer.