Colon cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the world and unfortunately, its prevalence is on the rise.

According to the American Cancer Society, there are approximately 149,500 new cases of colon cancer in the United States each year, and about 53,000 people die of the disease annually. The good news is that colon cancer is preventable and treatable if detected early. In this article, we’ll provide you with valuable information on how to stay protected from this life-threatening disease.

What is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer is the development of cancerous cells in the colon or rectum. These cells grow uncontrollably and can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. The colon and rectum are part of the digestive system.

They work together to remove waste from the body. Colon cancer occurs when the cells in the lining of the colon or rectum become abnormal and grow out of control, forming a polyp. A polyp may be benign or cancerous.

If left untreated, a cancerous polyp can grow and spread to other parts of the body, including nearby lymph nodes, and eventually cause death.

What Causes Colon Cancer?

The exact cause of colon cancer is unknown. However, certain factors may increase your risk of developing the disease. These factors are:.

Age – the risk of colon cancer increases as you get older
History of polyps – if you’ve had polyps before, you’re at a higher risk of developing colon cancer
Family history of colon cancer – if someone in your family has had colon cancer, you’re at a higher risk of developing the disease
Diet – a diet high in red meat and processed foods increases your risk of developing colon cancer
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption – these habits increase your risk of developing many types of cancer, including colon cancer
Obesity – being overweight or obese puts you at a higher risk of developing colon cancer

How to Protect Yourself from Colon Cancer

There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of colon cancer. These include:.

1. Get Screened Regularly

Screening for colon cancer is one of the most effective ways to detect the disease early and improve the chances of successful treatment. Colon cancer screening can detect polyps before they become cancerous and help prevent colon cancer altogether.

If you’re over 50 years of age, it’s recommended that you get screened every 10 years. If you have a family history of colon cancer, you should start earlier and get screened more frequently.

2. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet is essential for maintaining good health and reducing the risk of colon cancer. A healthy diet should comprise fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.

Avoid consuming red meat, processed foods, and excessive amounts of alcohol. Try to incorporate plenty of fiber-rich foods in your diet such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and legumes.

3. Stay Physically Active

Staying physically active is crucial for maintaining good health and reducing the risk of colon cancer. Regular exercise helps reduce the risk of colon cancer by regulating insulin levels, reducing inflammation, and improving bowel function.

Aim to do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, cycling or swimming.

4. Quit Smoking and Avoid Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are known to increase the risk of developing many types of cancers, including colon cancer. Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption can help reduce your risk of cancer and improve your overall health.

5. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese puts you at a higher risk of developing colon cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a healthy diet can reduce your risk of colon cancer and improve your overall health.

6. Know Your Family History

If someone in your family has had colon cancer, you’re at a higher risk of developing the disease. Knowing your family history can help you take steps to reduce your risk and get screened more frequently if necessary.

7. Be Mindful of Symptoms

Being aware of the symptoms of colon cancer is important. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately:.

Blood in your stool
Changes in bowel movements
Abdominal pain
Bloating or discomfort
Unexplained weight loss

Conclusion

Colon cancer is a serious disease, but it’s preventable and treatable with early detection. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can reduce your risk of colon cancer and improve your overall health.

Don’t be a fool, take steps to protect yourself from this disease.