Understanding Colon Cancer: Causes, Risk Factors, and Prevention Strategies
Colon cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer in the United States. However, it still claims thousands of lives each year due to its often subtle early symptoms that can be easily overlooked. According to Dr. Heinz-Josef Lenz, a professor of medicine at the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, colon cancer is the deadliest cancer for men under 50 and the second-deadliest for women under 50.
The good news is that when detected early, colon cancer is highly treatable. In fact, it is largely preventable through routine screening and adopting healthy lifestyle habits. This article explores what colon cancer is, what increases your risk, and how you can take steps to reduce your chances of developing this disease.
What Is Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, begins with the formation of benign polyps in the large intestine, or colon. Over time, these polyps can become malignant and spread to other parts of the body. Symptoms of advanced stages may include abdominal pain, bloody stool, changes in bowel habits such as constipation or diarrhea, anemia from blood loss, and unexplained weight loss.
However, early-stage colon cancer may not present any noticeable symptoms, making regular screening essential. The American Cancer Society estimates that the average lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is about 1 in 24 for men and 1 in 26 for women.
What Causes Colon Cancer?
While the exact causes of colon cancer can vary, several factors are known to increase the risk. A family history of the disease significantly raises the likelihood of developing it, as do inherited conditions like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis also contribute to increased risk due to ongoing inflammation in the digestive tract.
Type 2 diabetes has also been linked to a higher chance of developing colon cancer. Age is another factor, as most cases occur in individuals over 50. However, there has been a concerning rise in incidence among younger adults.
Lifestyle choices play a major role in the development of colon cancer. Diets high in red meat, especially when fried or grilled, and processed meats like hot dogs and deli meats have been associated with an increased risk. A sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can also contribute to the development of this disease.
How to Prevent Colon Cancer
Preventing colon cancer involves understanding the risk factors and taking proactive steps to reduce them. Here are some key strategies:
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Improve Your Diet: A diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can significantly lower your risk. Fiber helps maintain a healthy digestive system and reduces exposure to carcinogens. Reducing intake of red and processed meats is also crucial.
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Ditch Tobacco and Limit Alcohol: Smoking is strongly linked to colon cancer, so quitting tobacco is vital. Limiting alcohol consumption is also important, as its metabolization can produce harmful substances that damage DNA and promote uncontrolled cell growth.
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Exercise Regularly: Physical activity helps reduce inflammation, boost immune function, and improve insulin sensitivity—factors that can help prevent cancer. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week and muscle-strengthening exercises twice a week.
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Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity, especially around the abdomen, is a significant risk factor for colon cancer. Losing even a small amount of weight through improved diet and exercise can make a difference.
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Get Screened Regularly: Screening is the most effective way to prevent colon cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends starting regular screenings at age 45 for those at average risk and earlier for those with a family history. Colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for detection and removal of polyps. Other options include stool-based tests like the multi-targeted stool DNA test (MT-sDNA) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT).
Regular screening is critical, as catching colon cancer early can lead to survival rates as high as 90%. It is essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations and stay consistent with your screening schedule.
