Colon cancer used to be something “older” people had to think about – but now there is an increasing number of people younger than 50 who are diagnosed with colon cancer. During Colon Cancer Awareness Month in March, we’re asking you to arm yourself with knowledge and spread the word – so we can turn these numbers back around.
Because there’s good news: COLON CANCER IS PREVENTABLE.
By being aware of your body, knowing the possibilities and risk factors of colon cancer, and going to the doctor, you can turn the statistics around and prevent colon cancer.
Use these crucial tips for young people to help prevent colon cancer:
1. Understand the Risk Factors
Do you know if you’re at risk for colon cancer? Risk factors include:
- Family history
- Certain genetic conditions
- Unhealthy lifestyle habits
- Underlying medical conditions (like inflammatory bowel disease)
Ask relatives for your family history of colon cancer and other disorders, and listen if someone mentions in passing anything about digestive concerns, polyps, colonoscopies, or colon cancer.
Learn more about Colon Cancer Facts and Risk Factors, and schedule an appointment to talk to your doctor if you have any of these risk factors to determine proactive measures you can take.
2. Pay Attention to Symptoms
Be vigilant about any unusual symptoms you experience, such as:
- Changes in bowel habits
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Blood in the stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- ANY other digestive symptoms
Even beyond that, pay attention to ANY symptoms you have – because you may have adjusted to something that’s been going on for a while and accepted it.
Those symptoms may be a warning sign, and the earlier symptoms are looked into, the easier it is to prevent and stop colon cancer in its tracks.
3. Maintain a Healthy Diet
What you eat fuels your body…and can also fuel disease. Your healthy diet should consist of:
- Plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains instead of white flour
- Fiber to promote digestive health
- Lean proteins instead of red meat
- Limiting processed foods, red meat, and food high in saturated fats
Learn more about Why Ultra-Processed Foods Affect Your Gut and Can Possibly Increase Risk of Colon Cancer, and talk to your doctor about taking steps to alter your diet where needed.
4. Stay Active
Physically moving helps keep everything in your digestive system moving, and helps to keep you healthy overall. Engage in regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight and help reduce your risk of colon cancer.
Aim to walk every day, and incorporate more physical activity as often as you can. Talk to your doctor about how much exercise is right for you – including moderate and vigorous exercise.
5. Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption
Among its other detriments, smoking has also been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.
Additionally, Alcohol Increases Your Risk of Colon Cancer, so be sure to eliminate excessive drinking and limit alcohol consumption as much as possible.
Be aware that if you do partake in either of these, you have risk factors for colon cancer.
6. Get a Colonoscopy
While regular colonoscopy screening for colon cancer typically begins at age 50, younger individuals with certain risk factors may need to have a colonoscopy sooner.
Talk to your doctor about your colon cancer risk factors – and any digestive discomforts you may have, no matter how seemingly minor – and discuss when you should begin colon cancer screenings.
7. Prioritize Regular Check-Ups
Even if you feel healthy, it’s crucial to schedule regular check-ups with your doctor – keeping digestive concerns, risk factors, and colon cancer in the regular discussion.
These appointments allow for early detection of any potential health issues, including colon cancer, which makes it easier to treat.
Visit Your Gastrointestinal Doctor
During and beyong Colon Cancer Awareness Month, be sure that If you have ANY symptoms or risk factors, no matter your age, you schedule an appointment with your doctor. At Gastrointestinal Specialists, P.C., our team of knowledgeable doctors will assess your symptoms and develop the best course of treatment and prevention for you. Schedule your appointment today!