Colon cancer refers to the formation of malignancies, i.e. cancerous tumors inside the colon or rectum, and is one of the most common forms of cancer. The causes of colon cancer are complex. But there are ways to reduce the risk, so that colon cancer receives early and proper prevention. Although there is no proven way to completely prevent colon cancer, most people can reduce their risk. There are certain strategies that can be adopted in order to reduce the likelihood of developing the condition, such as screening and proper management of risk factors.
There are certain risk factors that increase the chances of colon cancer, and they are difficult to control. Inevitable risk factors for colon cancer include advanced age, a personal or family history of polyps or colon cancer, a diagnosis of Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis, and inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. In these cases, screening at a young age is imperative, in order to facilitate prevention, early diagnosis and targeted treatment of colon cancer.
Screening to prevent colon cancer
In order to reduce the risk of colon cancer, it is important that every person focuses on prevention as early as possible and starts screening with colonoscopy at the recommended age. For people at average risk, it is recommended to start the appropriate screening program at age 45. However, people at increased risk should be screened before the age of 45 to prevent health-threatening conditions.
Almost all colon cancers begin as precancerous polyps, which are abnormal growths in the colon or rectum. Such polyps may exist in the colon for years before cancer develops. They may not cause any symptoms, especially in the early stages of the condition. Colon cancer screening with colonoscopy helps identify precancerous polyps so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Consequently, their removal significantly reduces the risk of developing cancer. Screening can also detect colon cancer in early stages, when treatments are more likely to be successful.
Colon cancer prevention: Changes in dietary habits
Diet plays an important role in the prevention of colon cancer. Eating plenty of fiber and limiting red and processed meat and fatty foods have been shown to reduce the risk of developing colon cancer. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains contain vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants, which may help prevent cancer. In fact, diet can affect the balance of healthy and unhealthy bacteria in the gut. This can affect the risk of malignancy.
Colorectal cancer prevention: Lifestyle changes
Certain habits may work beneficially for colon cancer to receive early prevention. More specifically, regular exercise benefits the heart and helps in maintaining a healthy body weight. It may also reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer, including colon cancer. 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week is enough to prevent the risk of developing colon cancer. Knowing that increased body weight or obesity augments the risk of colon or rectal cancer, a healthy diet and increased physical activity can act as an effective preventive measure.
Limiting alcohol consumption is an important step in preventing colon cancer. Alcohol consumption has been linked to a higher risk of colon cancer, so limiting it to normal levels is recommended. Along with limiting alcohol, smoking cessation is an effective preventative measure, as long-term smokers are more likely to develop colon or rectal cancer.
More generally, when it comes to colon cancer, but also any form of cancer, prevention is always the best treatment. At the same time, the early detection of cancer before it spreads contributes significantly to the successful treatment of the disease. The General Surgeons in Athens contribute significantly to the treatment of colon cancer, if it is found. Laparoscopic colectomy surgery, in which the diseased part of the colon containing the tumor is removed, contributes significantly to increasing the survival rates of the oncology patient.
