Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that originates in the colon or rectum.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), colon cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. While there are several risk factors for colon cancer, recent studies have shown that the quality of one’s water supply may also play a significant role in the development of colon cancer.

Water Quality and Colon Cancer

The link between water quality and colon cancer is due to the presence of certain chemicals and contaminants in the water supply.

For instance, studies have shown that chlorination byproducts such as trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs), which are produced during the disinfection process for drinking water, can increase the risk of colon cancer.

Other contaminants that have been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer include pesticides, heavy metals, and organic chemicals such as benzene and vinyl chloride.

These contaminants can be introduced into the water supply through a variety of sources, such as agricultural runoff, industrial pollution, and aging water infrastructure.

Understanding Colon Cancer

Before delving into the specific risk factors associated with colon cancer and water quality, it’s important to understand how colon cancer develops in the body. Colon cancer begins as small, noncancerous clumps of cells called polyps.

Over time, some of these polyps can become cancerous, spreading to nearby tissues and organs, and ultimately to other parts of the body. Both genetic and environmental factors can contribute to the development of colon cancer.

Age

Age is a significant risk factor for colon cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 90% of colon cancer cases are diagnosed in individuals over the age of 50.

However, recent studies have shown that younger individuals may also be at risk for colon cancer. In fact, colon cancer rates have been increasing among adults under the age of 50 over the past decade.

Familial History

If you have a family history of colon cancer, you may be at increased risk for the disease. This is particularly true if a first-degree relative (such as a parent or sibling) has been diagnosed with colon cancer.

Inherited gene mutations, such as those associated with Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), can also increase your risk of developing colon cancer.

Diet and Lifestyle Factors

Your diet and lifestyle habits can also play a significant role in your risk of developing colon cancer. Diets that are high in red and processed meats, saturated fats, and low in fiber have been associated with an increased risk of colon cancer.

Additionally, a sedentary lifestyle and obesity have been shown to increase the risk of colon cancer.

Water Quality and Colon Cancer Risk

As mentioned earlier, the presence of certain chemicals and contaminants in the water supply can increase the risk of colon cancer. Chlorination byproducts, such as THMs and HAAs, have been shown to be particularly concerning.

These chemicals have been classified as carcinogenic (cancer-causing) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and have been linked to an increased risk of bladder and colorectal cancers in particular.

One study conducted by researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina found that individuals who drank water that contained higher levels of THMs had a significantly increased risk of colon cancer.

In fact, the study found that individuals who drank water with the highest levels of THMs had a 63% increased risk of colon cancer compared to those who drank water with the lowest levels of THMs.

Similarly, research conducted by the University of Arizona found that higher levels of arsenic in drinking water were associated with an increased risk of colon cancer.

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that can be found in groundwater in certain areas of the United States, particularly in the Southwest.

Protecting Your Health

Given the potential risks associated with water quality and colon cancer, it’s important to take steps to protect your health. Here are a few tips:.

Before drinking tap water, check with your local water utility and ask for a copy of their annual water quality report. This report will give you information on the levels of various contaminants in your drinking water.
If your water utility does not provide an annual water quality report, consider having your water tested by a certified laboratory.
If you are concerned about the quality of your drinking water, consider installing a home water filtration system, which can remove many contaminants.
Drink plenty of water every day, but choose your water wisely. Consider choosing filtered water or low-mineral bottled water instead of tap water if you are concerned about the quality of your water supply.
Eat a healthy diet that is rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables, and low in red meat and processed foods.
Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight.
If you are over the age of 50, get screened regularly for colon cancer.

Conclusion

While the quality of your water supply is just one of many factors that can contribute to your risk of developing colon cancer, it’s important to be aware of this potential risk factor.

By taking steps to protect your health, such as drinking filtered water, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, and getting screened regularly for colon cancer, you can help reduce your risk of developing this disease.