Colorectal cancer is abnormal and uncontrollable cell growth that occurs in the colon or rectum. According to the Centers for Disease Control, colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. There are many lifestyle behaviors you can engage in to reduce your risk of developing colon cancer, but drinking water is not one of them.
Increasing Physical Activity
Engaging in physical activity has been associated with a decreased risk of colon cancer. A meta-analysis published in the "British Journal of Cancer" in February of 2009 concluded that there is an inverse relationship between physical activity and colon cancer in both men and women. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends that you should be physically active at least 150 minutes per week.
Consuming a Healthy Diet
Eating a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables and fiber is also correlated with a decreased risk of colon cancer. Consume at least five fruits and vegetables each day to protect your health. A diet high in fat has been associated with an increased risk, so limit your daily fat consumption. According to the American Heart Association, you should restrict your dietary fat to 25 to 35 percent of your total calories each day.
Limiting Alcohol Consumption
Excessive alcohol intake is linked with an increased risk of colon cancer. Three drinks a day is defined as excessive, and the amount of alcohol raises your risk more than the type of alcohol you drink. If you consume alcohol, drink in moderation. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, moderate consumption is one drink per day for women and two for men.
Avoiding Tobacco
Cigarette smoking is also correlated to an increased risk of colon cancer. A study published in the "Journal of the National Cancer Institute" in December of 2000 found that there is a dose response relationship with smoking. Current and former smokers had an increased risk based on the duration of smoking and amount of cigarettes smoked each day. This study also found that the risk decreased significantly with each year since quitting.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Colorectal Cancer
- "British Journal of Cancer"; Physical Activity and Colon Cancer Prevention: A Meta-analysis; Wolin K.Y., Yan Y., Colditz G.A., Lee I.M.; Feb. 24, 2009
- American College of Sports Medicine; ACSM Issues New Recomendations on Quantity and Quality of Exercise; June 28, 2011
- National Cancer Institute: Colorectal Cancer Prevention
- American Heart Association: Know Your Fats
- "Journal of the National Cancer Institute"; Cigarette Smoking and Colorectal Cancer Mortality in the Cancer Prevention Study II; Chao A., Thun M.J., Jacobs E.J., Henley S.J., Rodriguez C., Calle E.E.; Dec. 6, 2000
