Prevention

Colorectal cancer is one of only a few cancers that can be prevented through lifestyle changes and screening tests, which allow doctors to find and remove hidden growths before they become cancer, or to detect the cancer in an early, more treatable stage. The following tips provided by the Prevent Cancer Foundation can help you to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer.

Diet

· Eat a low-fat diet and maintain a healthy weight.
· Eat a high-fiber diet rich in fruits and vegetables and whole grains from breads, cereals, nuts, and beans.
· Consume calcium-rich foods such as low-fat or skim milk.
· Eat foods with folate such as leafy green vegetables. A daily multivitamin containing .4 mg of folic acid may also be helpful.
· Limit red meat consumption and avoid processed meats.
· If you use alcohol, drink only in moderation.

Exercise

· Exercise for at least 20 minutes three to four days each week. Moderate exercise such as walking, gardening, or climbing steps may help reduce your risk.

Lifestyle

· If you use tobacco, quit. If you don't use tobacco, don't start.

Screening

· Half of colorectal cancer deaths could potentially be prevented if everyone followed their recommended screening guidelines. Click here to find out more.

Talk to your friends and family about the importance of getting screened for colorectal cancer and ways to help prevent the disease, such as not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising, eating less red meat, and consuming alcohol in moderation or not at all.