Several methods can be used to prevent colorectal cancer.
Early detection – to find early cancerous or precancerous polyps, it is now recommended for all persons to undergo testing on a regular basis from the age of 40 for people at risk or 50 for non at risk individuals. Earlier the cancer is detected, the higher your chances of recovery. In fact, it is estimated that screening for colorectal cancer can reduce up to 33% of colorectal cancer deaths among people aged 50 and over.
Do not wait for the manifestation of symptoms to see your doctor; from the time you experience symptoms, the cancer is already advanced, and your healing or survival chance highly decreases.
Lifestyle – these steps can help you not only prevent colorectal cancer but also most other type of cancer:
- Eliminate in your diet all foods that can lead to the development of colorectal cancer: red meat, grilled sausage, smoked ham, salami and sausages, etc. If you cannot stop consuming them, eat them rarely and moderately.
- quit smoking if you are smoker; smoking is the source of a variety of diseases including colorectal cancer
- exercise regularly, at least 3 times a week
- consume alcohol moderately; heavy drinking increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer
- Take vitamin D supplement, mainly in autumn and winter. If you are elderly or rarely expose to the sun, you can take vitamin D during all seasons;
- Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and grains; these foods are rich in nutrients and antioxidants that keep not only your digestive tract healthy but also your whole body. It is shown in many studies that fruits and vegetables when consumed regularly and in great quantity, have beneficial effects in preventing and fighting against almost all types of cancer.