Colon cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the colon or rectum. It is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide and ranks third in cancer-related deaths.

The regular screening and early detection of colon cancer are the best ways to prevent it. However, researchers are also exploring the use of a pill to reduce the risk of colon cancer.

In this article, we will discuss the potential benefits of a pill that may help reduce the risk of colon cancer and other ways to lower the risk of colon cancer.

What is colon cancer?

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the colon or rectum. The colon is a long tube-shaped organ that is part of the digestive system. It absorbs water and nutrients from the food we eat and processes waste before it leaves the body.

The cancerous cells in the colon or rectum grow and divide uncontrollably, forming a tumor. Over time, the cancer may spread to other parts of the body.

Screening for colon cancer

The regular screening and early detection of colon cancer is the best way to prevent it. Screening tests for colon cancer include:.

Colonoscopy – a test that uses a flexible tube with a camera to examine the inside of the colon and rectum.
Virtual colonoscopy – a test that uses a CT scan to create images of the colon and rectum.
Fecal occult blood test – a test that checks for blood in the stool.
Fecal immunochemical test – a test that checks for a specific protein in the stool.

If colon cancer is detected early, it is easier to treat and has a higher chance of being cured. Therefore, it is essential to speak to a healthcare provider about colon cancer screening if you are at high risk of developing colon cancer.

Reducing the risk of colon cancer

There are several ways to reduce the risk of colon cancer. These include:.

Eating a healthy and balanced diet that is low in red meat and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Exercising regularly.
Losing weight if you are overweight or obese.
Not smoking and limiting alcohol consumption.

While these lifestyle changes may help to reduce the risk of colon cancer, researchers are also exploring the use of a pill that may help to prevent colon cancer.

The potential benefits of a pill to reduce the risk of colon cancer

Scientists are researching different drugs that may help to prevent colon cancer.

Some of these drugs work by blocking or slowing down the growth of cancer cells, while others work by reducing inflammation or improving the immune system’s ability to fight cancer.

One such drug that has shown promise in reducing the risk of colon cancer is aspirin. Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is commonly used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

It has also been shown to reduce the risk of colon cancer.

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that taking a low-dose aspirin (81 mg) daily for at least six years reduced the risk of colon cancer by 24%.

The study followed 6000 participants who had a family history of colon cancer or had had polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum.

Another study published in the journal JAMA Oncology found that taking a low-dose aspirin (100 mg) daily was associated with a lower risk of developing advanced colon polyps that could turn into cancer.

The study followed over 600 patients who had undergone a colonoscopy.

However, it is essential to note that aspirin can have side effects, such as stomach bleeding, and should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Other drugs that may help reduce the risk of colon cancer

Aside from aspirin, other drugs that may help prevent colon cancer include:.

Calcium supplements – Calcium may help to reduce the risk of colon cancer by binding with cancer-causing substances in the colon and removing them from the body. Studies have shown that taking calcium supplements may reduce the risk of colon cancer by 20-25%. However, taking high doses of calcium supplements may increase the risk of kidney stones and other side effects.
Celecoxib (Celebrex) – Celecoxib is a type of NSAID that can reduce inflammation and block cancer cell growth. However, it can also have side effects, such as stomach bleeding and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
Statins – Statins are drugs commonly used to lower cholesterol levels. Some studies have suggested that statins may also help to reduce the risk of colon cancer. However, more research is needed to confirm this.

Conclusion

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that can be prevented with regular screening and early detection. However, researchers are exploring the use of a pill to help lower the risk of colon cancer.

Aspirin has shown promise in reducing the risk of colon cancer, but it should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare provider. Other drugs, such as calcium supplements, celecoxib, and statins, may also help to prevent colon cancer, but they can also have side effects.

Therefore, it is important to speak to a healthcare provider about the best way to reduce the risk of colon cancer.