Colon and rectal cancer is the second most common type of cancer among women and the third most common among men, according to the World Cancer Research Fund. However, experts emphasize that colon and rectal cancer can largely be prevented.
Dr. David Liska, a colon and rectal surgeon and director of the Colon and Rectal Cancer Center at Cleveland Clinic, stated that screening for colon and rectal cancer presents a “timely intervention opportunity,” noting that lifestyle improvements can help prevent many forms of cancer.
**Early Intervention**
During a colonoscopy, doctors can identify and remove benign or malignant tumors before they cause any harm. The expert confirmed that breast, lung, or brain cancers cannot be prevented in the same manner, nor can tumors from these organs be removed as easily as those from the large intestine.
Most cases of colon and rectal cancer occur in individuals over 50, but Dr. Liska pointed out a recent rise in prevalence among younger patients, suggesting that this is partly due to increased unhealthy eating habits combined with a lack of exercise.
Anyone experiencing unusual symptoms, such as rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or abdominal pain, should not ignore these symptoms regardless of age or family history. Liska urged those with such symptoms to visit a doctor. He highlighted that colon and rectal cancer can be prevented by following these five steps:
**Step One: Get Regular Screenings**
Dr. Liska explained that colon and rectal cancer arises from a cancerous tumor or another potentially pre-cancerous lesion, which takes about 10 years to turn from a benign into a malignant tumor. Therefore, colonoscopy allows doctors to find and remove polyps before they become problematic.
Liska pointed out that colonoscopy is a safe and relatively non-intrusive procedure, typically taking about 30 minutes if no polyps need removing. Patients should seek experienced colonoscopy specialists who know how to distinguish and remove polyps safely. Liska stressed that everyone should undergo regular screening, either through colonoscopy or other recommended tests, starting at age 45, when the risk of colon and rectal cancer begins to increase. However, individuals at higher risk, such as those with a family history, should talk to their doctor about starting screenings earlier.
**Step Two: Follow a Colon-Friendly Diet**
The colon and rectal surgeon recommended increasing the intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and legumes as they help reduce the risk of certain cancers and promote healthy bowel function. He also advised limiting the consumption of red and processed meats or those high in fat, which can increase the risk of colon cancer. Additionally, alcohol is a contributing factor to cancer risk, so it should be limited or avoided.
He noted a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association that found adopting a Mediterranean-style diet, rich in fish and fiber-rich foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, reduces the risk of colon and rectal cancer by 43% compared to a non-vegetarian diet.
**Step Three: Maintain a Healthy Weight**
Dr. Liska stated that the risk of colon and rectal cancer increases with weight gain, recommending that individuals regularly monitor their Body Mass Index (BMI), which is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by the square of height in meters. A BMI of 25 or above may indicate an increased risk of the disease.
**Step Four: Exercise Regularly**
The expert from Cleveland Clinic advised individuals to engage in moderate exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week, indicating that physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce stress, which may lower cancer risk.
Examples of moderate-intensity exercises for healthy adults include brisk walking, cycling, and doubles tennis.
**Step Five: Avoid All Forms of Smoking**
Smoking increases the risk of colon cancer, according to Dr. Liska, who emphasized the necessity of completely avoiding it. In conclusion, he reminded that "cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, but up to 85% of colon and rectal cancer cases can be prevented or successfully treated if high-risk patients undergo colonoscopy screenings."
