Six easy ways to lower your risk of getting colon cancer

A recent survey ranked Colorectal Cancer as one of the most prevalent types of cancer affecting men in Nairobi.

It came in third behind prostate cancer and oesophagus cancer.

Colorectal cancer, also known as bowel cancer and colon cancer, is the development of cancer from the colon or rectum (parts of the large intestine).

Signs and symptoms of colon cancer include:

• A persistent change in your bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation or a change in the consistency of your stool
• Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
• Persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas or pain
• A feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely
• Weakness or fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss

According to doctors, there are six easy ways that can help you lower the risk of colorectal cancer;

Screening

These are tests that look out for cancer signs and can find rectal or colon cancer during their early stages. This will ensure you get treatment early enough and any growths can be removed in good time.

Eating vegetables

Diets that include lots of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains have been linked with a decreased risk of colon or rectal cancer. Eat less red meat (beef, pork, or lamb) and processed meats (hot dogs and some luncheon meats), which have been linked with an increased risk of colorectal cancer.

Exercise regularly

If you are not physically active, you may have a greater chance of developing colon or rectal cancer. Increasing your activity may help reduce your risk.

Watch your weight

Being overweight or obese increases your risk of getting and dying from colon or rectal cancer. Eating healthier and increasing your physical activity can help you control your weight.

Avoid smoking

Long-term smokers are more likely to develop and die from colon or rectal cancer.

Reduce alcohol intake

Alcohol use has been linked with a higher risk of colorectal cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends no more than 2 drinks a day for men and 1 drink a day for women. A single drink amounts to 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine or 1½ ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits (hard liquor).