Colorectal cancer is more commonly referred to as bowel cancer and it is a serious concern. In 2017 there were over 15,000 cases of it, making it the third most common cancer. It is worth noting that colorectal cancer is most common in people over 50 with an average age of diagnosis being 68 for men and 72 for women.
However, it can strike anyone of any age. That’s why it is important to be aware of how you can lower your risk, it is easier than you think.
The good news is that, when caught early, colorectal cancer is often curable. If you think you have any signs of bowel cancer then contact a reputable colorectal surgeon immediately. The most common way of dealing with this type of cancer is surgery, it cures 50% of patients.
Watching Your Weight
This is good advice in general. Being obese increases your risk of colorectal cancer, it is also more likely that you’ll suffer cardiovascular issues and contract diabetes.
You need to check what a healthy weight is for your age, build, and height and then try to lose weight.
Check Your Diet
People that eat a lot of red meat are more at risk of colorectal cancer. The same is true if you like hot dogs and other processed meats.
It is also possible that cooking meat at very high temperatures can increase your risk. This is based on research that shows the cooking process releases chemicals that increase the risk of cancer.
Smoking
Smoking is known to increase your risk of lung cancer. However, you may not have known that smoking increases your risk of all cancers, including colorectal. Quitting can be hard but it is beneficial for your health.
Excess Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol consumption is constantly being reviewed. Some reports state it is best not to drink any, others state there are benefits providing you drink no more than one or two glasses per day.
What is certainly true is that excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of many age-related diseases, including colorectal cancer. Cut back to stay healthy.
The above can all be controlled by you. Unfortunately, not all the risk factors can be:
Age
Cancer risk goes up as you age. Colorectal cancer generally affects people over 50, the older you get the higher your risk and the more aware you need to be of the signs.
IBD
If you have an Inflammatory Bowed Disease, such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis you will have a higher risk of colorectal cancer. This is because the colon is often inflamed and you are more likely to get abnormal cells.
It’s important to note that IBS doesn’t increase your risk of colorectal cancer.
History
If you have already had colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps then you are at higher risk of developing colorectal cancer again, especially if the polyps were large. In short, you need to be screened regularly to ensure everything is functioning as it should be.
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