According to global statistics, colorectal cancer ranks third among all cancer cases. Around the world, it accounts for 10% of the total cases of cancer and is the second leading reason for death due to cancer. But the good news is that colorectal cancer is also one of the most preventable. A nutritious, well-balanced diet with adequate amounts of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is essential to prevent colorectal cancer. 

Colorectal Cancer Screening 

Screening involves examining someone who does not yet exhibit any symptoms of the disease to check for cancer or precancer. One of the most effective methods to prevent colorectal cancer is routine screening.

Start screenings for colorectal cancer if your age is 45 years or older. Various tests can be used. To find the best options for you, consult with your physician. Whatever test you take, the most important thing is to get tested.

Most importantly, if there is a family history of colorectal cancer, discuss it with your doctor. The doctor will then recommend genetic counseling, which will give positive results.

Risk Factors

Several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of having colorectal cancer include:

Age: The likelihood of getting colorectal cancer rises with age. The risk is higher in individuals over the age of 45.

Family History: If there is a family history of colon cancer or other genetic diseases, you need to consult with a doctor.

Lifestyle Factors: Having an unhealthy lifestyle, such as a diet high in meat and low in vegetables and fruits, smoking, obesity, and drinking alcohol, increases the risk.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease: An individual who is already suffering from a bowel disease is at higher risk of getting cancer.

Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

When colorectal cancer starts developing, it does not show any symptoms. Regular screenings for cancer are essential to detect the disease at an early stage.

However, the following are a few symptoms that most likely point to colorectal cancer;

• Diarrhea

• Constipation

• Narrowing of the stool

• Persistent abdominal cramps, pain, or bloating  

• Blood in the stool

• Feeling constantly tired 

• Unusual sudden weight loss 

• Iron deficiency 

Tips to Avoid Colorectal Cancer 

One fact about colorectal cancer is that it can be prevented. Around 75% of all cancer cases could be avoided by adopting certain lifestyle changes. 

You can learn how to prevent colorectal cancer and reduce the risk of cancer by following these professional tips.

1. Getting Regular Screening

Regular screenings are extremely significant because of their potential to detect health issues in advance. Cancer and heart diseases can thus be detected before their symptoms appear. Consider your age and health record. Always follow any necessary advice from your doctor about screenings.

It’s essential to have screening done early. It detects conditions, most of which become manageable when found early. This saves lives.

Mostly, symptoms won’t appear at an early stage. So, if you have a family history, you must get your regular screening to detect cancer early and start treatment.

2. Adopt a Fiber-Rich Diet 

Consuming fruits, vegetables, grains, and other high-fiber foods reduces the risk of cancer.

3. Limit Red and Processed Meats

You should think about eliminating red meat from your diet. This lowers your risk of developing cancer. Substitute red and processed meat with fish or beans called lean. 

4. Maintain a Healthy Weight

About 13 different types of cancer are related to obesity and weight gain. To stay healthy, you need to keep your weight in check. When you maintain a healthy weight, your chances of getting colorectal cancer will be low.

Make sure you follow a balanced diet every day with exercise. Thus, it is advisable to get help from experts to lose weight.

5. Exercise Regularly

Engaging in physical activity prevents diseases and increases life expectancy. Daily light to moderate exercise is beneficial. This can include walking, cycling, or swimming. Regularly engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity.

Start with the exercises that you find interesting so that staying fit becomes an interesting part of your daily routine.

6. Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol Consumption

Smoking leads to increased risks of cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems. So, quitting smoking and alcohol consumption will highly enhance your health status and reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.

7. Avoiding Sugar and Refined Carbohydrates

Eating a diet rich in sugar and carbohydrates may raise blood sugar levels and cause obesity. As many types of cancer, including colorectal cancer are associated with weight and obesity. 

So, replace sugar with honey or maple syrup which are natural sweeteners that possess many health benefits in addition to their sweetening abilities. 

8. Increase Calcium and Vitamin D Intake

According to certain research, vitamin D, which can be obtained through sun exposure, specific foods, or vitamin supplements, may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. 

Moreover, some studies found that low vitamin D levels are associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer and other cancers. 

A higher risk of colorectal cancer has been associated in certain studies with low dietary calcium levels. Also, some claim that consuming more calcium may reduce the likelihood that colorectal adenomas will reappear.

9. Consult Healthcare Professionals Regularly 

You should have regular medical check-ups with healthcare providers. This helps to maintain good health and prevent complications. This includes receiving preventive care like vaccinations tailored to you. Further, sharing your health history allows for personalized lifestyle and medication advice to prevent future issues.

Conclusion

Preventing colorectal cancer requires a preventive strategy centered around healthy lifestyle choices and regular medical screenings. Moreover, consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can significantly reduce the risk.

Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake are also crucial. Regular screenings, starting at age 45 or earlier for those with a family history, play a vital role in early detection and prevention.