LETTERS – Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers today. What’s troubling is that colon cancer rates have been rising by as much as two per cent yearly in younger adults.
Data shows that colon and rectal cancer cause almost 50,000 deaths yearly in the United States. Colon and rectal cancer also known as cholesterol cancers collectively.
Most colorectal cancers begin as growth called polyps on the inner lining of the colon or the rectum. While some polyps remain benign, some become cancerous later on.
The good news is that we can reduce that risk by making some changes in our lifestyle. There are seven steps to follow:
1. Regular exercise is conductive to reduction of colon cancer by as much as 30 per cent apart from reducing the chances of acquiring diabetes and obesity.
Sitting for long periods is a health hazard. Some offices in the US the staff have to stand over their computers in doing their work.
2. The National Cancer Institute says that extra fat in the waist area may increase colon cancer risk. Hence maintaining a healthy weight is a wise choice.
3. Research shows that diets high in fibre, whole grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables can lessen your risk of colon cancer by as much as 40 per cent.
4. Quit Smoking. Scientists tell us that this might be because inhaled smoke or swallowed tobacco carries carcinogens to the colon.
5. Reduce alcohol consumption. A new study by the World Health Organization found a link between alcohol consumption and a higher risk of colon cancer.
The scientist says that alcohol by itself is not carcinogenic but that gut bacteria turn alcohol into the carcinogen acetaldehyde.
6. Take adequate intake of Vitamin D. Vitamin D vital for the proper growth and development of bones and teeth. Not only that, vitamin D is also important for developing improved resistance to certain disease, including colorectal cancer.
7. Colonoscopy to screen polyps is recommended at age 45 as research shows one in four people has polyps by age 50.
Screening can identify polyps before they develop into cancer. Screenings should be repeated every 10 years till you are about 85 or thereabouts.
Source: Dr A. Soorian (NST.COM.MY)
