How to Prevent Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is actually one of the most preventable types of cancer; however, it is also one of the most common cancers as well. Sadly, too many people do not think about their colon until it is too late.

Colon cancer can strike anyone, but there are a variety of things that you can do now to prevent having to deal with colon cancer in the future. Even if you do have a problem, when colon cancer is caught quickly, it usually can be taken care of. However, if you wait to long, it may be to late.

Step #1 - Have a Colon Screening

The most important thing that you can do to prevent colon cancer is to make sure that you have a colon screening. These screenings should become part of your yearly trip to the doctor after you turn 50. Studies show that one of four people over the age of 50 has polyps, which is a precursor to colon cancer, so it is imperative that you get screened.

Step #2 - Avoid a High Fat Diet

If you want to prevent colon cancer, you need to avoid eating a high fat diet as well. People who eat diets that are high in cholesterol and fats tend to be more likely to develop colon cancer. On the other hand, eating a diet high in fiber can help you prevent the cancer.

Step #3 - Keep Your Weight Down

Keeping your weight down is another way to prevent colon cancer. People who are obese are more likely to develop colon cancer. Also, people who have excess fat around their waist are also at a higher risk too, so keep your weight at a healthy point.

Step #4 - Exercise

Exercise is extremely important if you want to avoid getting colon cancer. Studies have shown that exercising regularly can cut your risk for colon cancer by a whopping 40%, and it also keeps your weight down and helps to prevent diabetes too.

Step #5 - Know Your Family Medical History

It is important that you know your family medical history. If others in your family have had colon cancer or even colon polyps, you are more at risk. You need to let your doctor know if these problems tend to run in your family so you can work to prevent it from happening to you.

Step #6 - Quit Smoking

If you are smoking, then you are increasing your risk of colon cancer. The tobacco seems to increase the size of polyps in the colon, and when you smoke, carcinogens are then carried to the colon, which can increase your risk of cancer. Taking the initiative to stop smoking can actually drastically lower your risk of getting colon cancer.