According to the American Cancer Society, colon cancer is the third most common type of cancer in both men and women in the United States. While genetics play a role in colon cancer, lifestyle factors also contribute to the risk.

The good news is that by making some simple changes to your lifestyle, you can decrease your colon cancer risk by 61%. Here are 10 changes that you can make today:.

1. Increase Physical Activity

Getting regular exercise can decrease colon cancer risk. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity, such as brisk walking or cycling, on most days of the week.

You can also incorporate strength training exercises, such as lifting weights or doing bodyweight exercises, on two to three days per week.

2. Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy balanced diet can decrease colon cancer risk. Aim for a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein sources, and healthy fats.

Limit your intake of processed and red meats, as these have been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.

3. Reduce Alcohol Consumption

Heavy alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. This means no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two drinks per day for men.

4. Quit Smoking

Smoking is a well-known risk factor for a number of diseases, including cancer. Quitting smoking can decrease colon cancer risk, as well as the risk of other types of cancer and chronic diseases.

5. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese has been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can decrease colon cancer risk.

6. Get Screened

Getting screened for colon cancer can help detect precancerous growths or early-stage cancer before it progresses. The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk of colon cancer begin regular screening at age 45.

7. Get Enough Vitamin D

Vitamin D may help protect against colon cancer. Getting enough vitamin D through sunlight, food sources, or supplements can decrease colon cancer risk.

8. Reduce Stress

Stress has been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. Finding ways to manage stress, such as through exercise, meditation, or talking to a therapist, can decrease colon cancer risk.

9. Limit Exposure to Environmental Toxins

Exposure to environmental toxins such as asbestos or benzene can increase colon cancer risk. Take steps to limit your exposure to these toxins, such as wearing protective gear when working with them.

10. Get Enough Sleep

Getting enough sleep is important for overall health, including decreasing colon cancer risk. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night.

By incorporating these simple lifestyle changes into your daily routine, you can decrease your colon cancer risk by 61%. Start by making one change at a time and gradually incorporating more changes into your routine. Your overall health will benefit!.