Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the world.

According to the American Cancer Society, it is estimated that approximately 1 in 24 men and 1 in 22 women will develop colon cancer in their lifetime. Though there is no surefire way to prevent colon cancer, there are several steps one can take to reduce their overall risk of developing this disease, especially if they have genetic susceptibility.

1. KNOW YOUR FAMILY HISTORY:

Colon cancer often runs in families. Therefore, it is important to know your family history and discuss it with your doctor.

If you have a family history of colon cancer, your doctor may recommend that you undergo more frequent screenings or start screenings at an earlier age.

2. EAT A HEALTHY DIET:

Eating a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help lower your risk of colon cancer. It is also a good idea to limit your intake of red meat, processed meats, and saturated fats.

According to studies, people who consume a lot of red meat (beef, lamb, or pork) and processed meats (bacon, sausage, hot dogs) have a higher risk of colon cancer.

3. EXERCISE REGULARLY:

Physical inactivity can increase your risk for colon cancer. Therefore, it is recommended that you exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week.

Regular exercise can help keep your body weight in check, which is important because obesity is a risk factor for colon cancer.

4. QUIT SMOKING:

Smoking is not only a major cause of lung cancer, but it can also increase your risk of developing colon cancer. Therefore, if you are a smoker, it is recommended that you quit.

5. LIMIT ALCOHOL INTAKE:

Alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk for colon cancer. Therefore, if you drink alcohol, it is important to do so in moderation. The American Cancer Society recommends that men limit themselves to two drinks a day and women to one.

6. SCREENING AND EARLY DETECTION:

Screening tests can detect colon cancer at an early stage when it is highly treatable. People who have a genetic predisposition to colon cancer may need to start getting screened earlier than others.

There are several types of screening tests including colonoscopy, fecal occult blood test (FOBT), and stool DNA test. Your doctor can help you decide which test is appropriate for you.

7. MEDICATIONS:

There are certain medications that can help reduce the risk of colon cancer for people who have a genetic susceptibility to the disease. These medications include aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and selective COX-2 inhibitors.

However, these medications have side effects and risks associated with them, so it is important to consult with your doctor before taking them.

8. CONSULT A GENETIC COUNSELOR:

If you have a family history of colon cancer or have a genetic susceptibility to the disease, it may be helpful to consult a genetic counselor.

A genetic counselor can help you determine your risk for colon cancer and develop a plan to manage that risk.

9. TAKE CARE OF YOUR MENTAL HEALTH:

Mental health is an often-overlooked aspect of overall health. However, it is important to take care of your mental health, especially if you are at risk for colon cancer.

Stress and anxiety can weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off cancer cells. Therefore, it is important to engage in activities that promote mental wellbeing, such as exercise, meditation, and talking to a therapist.

10. STAY ON TOP OF YOUR HEALTH:

Finally, it is important to stay on top of your overall health. Schedule regular check-ups with your doctor and report any unusual symptoms or changes in your health.

Early detection is key to successfully treating colon cancer, so it is important to stay vigilant and report any potential warning signs.