Ways to Reduce Colon Cancer Risk

What Is Colon Cancer?

The colon, which also is known as the large intestine, is a tube-shaped organ that is part of the digestive tract. After food has been digested during its passage through the stomach and small intestine, the colon removes any remaining water and electrolytes. The colon contains healthy bacteria, which assist with breaking down food and altering it to become waste. The lower portion of the colon, known as the rectum, is solid waste’s final stop before leaving the body via the anus during a bowel movement.

The colon can be separated into several parts:

• The cecum (upper entryway to the colon, connected to the small intestine)
• The ascending colon
• The transverse colon
• The descending colon
• The sigmoid colon, which connects to the rectum
• The rectum

Cancer can develop within any portion of the colon, although it is more common in some areas of the organ than others. The disease begins when cells mutate, become cancerous, and multiple quickly.

Causes of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer often arises from polyps. Polyps are growths that form along the colon’s inner lining. While they typically are benign, some polyps can become cancerous over time.

There are several different types of colon polyps, including:

• Sessile serrated polyps (SSP): These growths are more likely than other types of polyps to become cancerous over time.
• Adenomatous polyps: While only about 5% of these polyps are cancerous, the risk of any given adenomatous polyp becoming cancerous increases over the years, so physicians usually remove these growths during colonoscopy.
• Hyperplastic polyps: This is a common type of polyp that has a very low likelihood of being cancerous. However, researchers continue to examine whether having a high number of these polyps is associated with an increased risk for colorectal cancer over time.

The cancer risk associated with polyps is determined not only by the type of growth but also by the size and number of polyps.

How to Reduce Colon Cancer Risk

There are many ways a person can reduce his or her risk of developing colon cancer. These include:

Improving Dietary Practices

Implementing a healthy diet can potentially decrease the chances of developing colon cancer. Oncologists recommend replacing unhealthy foods with whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Beyond potentially decreasing the risk of colon cancer, this change in eating habits can cut the chances of developing diseases such as diabetes and coronary artery disease. In addition, patients who implement good dietary practices can have more energy throughout the day. Patients should also consider consuming foods low in animal fats while reducing or avoiding red meat and, in particular, meat that has been cured or processed in other ways.

Avoiding Smoking and Limiting or Eliminating Alcohol

Smoking tobacco and other products can increase the risk of developing cancers, including colon cancer, so smoking cessation is a key step to better health.

People also can also implement a healthier lifestyle by decreasing their alcohol consumption. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a safe alcohol consumption limit is one alcoholic beverage per day for women and two per day for men. Anything above this limit is considered unhealthy.

Obtaining Sufficient Exercise

A sedentary lifestyle and carrying excess weight both pose threats to health, including increased risk for developing colon cancer and other diseases. Exercise routines do not need to be rigorous. Many people can reap the benefits of exercise even through light activities, such as walking or gardening.

The Importance of Early Detection

Having regular colon cancer screenings is a critical step in reducing risk for the disease. During a colonoscopy, a physician can identify and remove problematic polyps before they become cancerous. The procedure – and other screening methods – also enable detection of any cancer that may be present. For people at average risk for colon cancer, physicians generally recommend starting regular colon cancer screenings at about age 45. However, people should begin screenings earlier if they have a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors for the disease, such as inflammatory bowel disease. Irritable bowel disease is a different condition than inflammatory bowel disease, and generally does not warrant early initiation of screening. Talk with your physician for more information.

Receive Colon Cancer Treatment from Regional Cancer Care Associates

Patients seeking treatment for colon cancer, other solid tumors, and both cancerous and non-cancerous blood disorders can rely on the experienced, compassionate specialists of Regional Cancer Care Associates. RCCA’s medical oncologists and hematologists provide the latest therapies and evidence-based care at 22 community-based locations across New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, and the Washington D.C. area, allowing patients to find convenient, accessible healthcare. To learn more about colon cancer treatment, contact Regional Cancer Care Associates or request an appointment today.