From age 50 on, everyone is at risk for colorectal cancer. Your risk is higher if you have a personal or family history of noncancerous colorectal polyps; colorectal cancer; inflammatory bowel disease; or ovarian, endometrial, or breast cancer.
The good news is that colorectal cancer is preventable.
National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is a good time to start reducing your risk.
- Get tested. If you’re age 50 or at high risk, make an appointment for a colonoscopy. Detected early, polyps can be removed before they become cancerous.
- Get physically active, or stay active. Exercise may help reduce your risk.
- Eat a low-fat diet, high in vegetables and fruits. Although eating fruits and vegetables may not prevent colorectal cancer, their nutrients, fiber, and phytonutrients may help reduce the chances.
- Enjoy more milk and other calcium-rich foods. Consuming enough calcium is linked to colon cancer protection.
Three more strategies may offer protection: (1) take a multivitamin with folic acid, calcium, and vitamin D; (2) don’t smoke; and (3) drink alcohol only in moderation, if at all.
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