Colon cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in men and women in the United States. Although colon cancer is preventable, it remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths, according to the American Cancer Society. Colon cancer is more likely to develop in people over the age of 50 and those with a strong family history. However, preventive measures, such as diet, exercise and regular doctor visits, can be taken to maintain a healthy, disease-free colon.
High Fiber Significance
Many studies have shown that high fiber foods promote colon health and aid against colon cancer. Fiber, found in only plant-based foods, should be consumed at approximately 25 grams a day in order to keep stool soft, according to the Cleveland Clinic. High fiber foods include fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains. MayoClinic.com recommends eating a variety of five or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day, to ensure consumption of a wide array of vitamins and minerals.
Meat and Nitrates Precautions
Diets low in red met, animal fat and cholesterol have shown to be protective against colon cancer. The Cleveland Clinic states a study of approximately 10,000 men and women showed that people who consumed a large amount of animal fat had a significant increase in the risk of colon cancer compared to those who consumed a small amount. The Cleveland Clinic reports recent studies have also suggested that consumption of nitrates, commonly found in processed meats like lunch meat and hot dogs, increase the risk of colon cancer by 13 percent.
Exercise Benefits
Another way to maintain colon health is through daily exercise. The Cleveland Clinic states physical activity reduces the risk of colon cancer by 40 percent. The American Cancer Society recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity on five or more days a week. An active lifestyle and healthy eating can help individuals maintain a healthy weight, which also assists in a healthy colon, according to MayoClinic.com.
Considerations
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs are a class of pain-relief medications that include such drugs as aspirin, naproxen and ibuprofen. MayoClinic.com states some studies have found NSAIDs to reduce the risk of precancerous polyps and colon cancer. In fact, some studies used aspirin alone, either at a low dose or for short-term use, and found beneficial results to colon health. However, taking NSAIDS in large doses or for prolonged periods of times can cause ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Prevention
A colonoscopy is a procedure used to see inside the colon and rectum, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. A colonoscopy detects inflamed tissue, ulcers and abnormal growths of the colon. Beginning at age 50, people at average risk should have routine colonoscopies to look for early signs of colon cancer, according to MayoClinic.com. However, individuals who have a family history of colorectal cancer or a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease should have a colonoscopy prior to 50 years of age. Primary care physicians will instruct patients on what age and how often they should get a colonoscopy.
