What you can do to help prevent colon cancer
Colorectal cancer — often referred to as colon cancer — is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in the United States when numbers for men and women are combined. However, you can take steps to help lower your risk and prevent colon cancer from developing.
Talk to your primary care provider about colorectal cancer screening
Schedule an appointment with a primary care provider to talk about screening options if you:
- Are experiencing symptoms
- Have a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors
- Are 45 and have not been screened for colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer screening
Early detection can save your life and make treatment more manageable. Ignoring the symptoms can result in the cancer being diagnosed at an advanced stage, when it may be harder to treat. Studies show that younger people are more likely to be diagnosed with late-stage colorectal cancer because they assume their symptoms are from something less serious.
The American Cancer Society recommends that people of average risk start screenings at age 45. However, some insurance carriers still follow the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendation to start screening at age 50, so please consult your individual insurance plan for coverage details.
Colonoscopy
The most widely known screening is colonoscopy — a test that uses a lighted scope with a camera to view the inside of your colon and rectum.
Covered by most insurance plans, colonoscopies do more than detect cancer. During this screening, your doctor can remove precancerous polyps to prevent them from developing into cancer and collect tissue samples for further analysis. With a normal result, colonoscopies are typically performed once every 10 years.
Talk to your primary care provider to see if a colonoscopy is right for you.
At-home tests
A colonoscopy isn’t the only option for colorectal cancer screening. There are other options, including tests that involve collecting stool samples at home and sending them to a lab for results.
While these tests offer convenience, they have to be repeated more frequently (typically every one to three years if you get a normal result) and don’t prevent precancerous polyps. A positive test doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer, so in some cases an additional diagnostic colonoscopy may be needed.
Colorectal cancer risk factors
Genetics
A first-degree relative diagnosed with colorectal, breast or uterine cancer may put you at higher risk for developing colon cancer, making it important to start screening earlier.
Lifestyle
Your lifestyle choices play a vital role in shaping your overall health. Maintaining a healthy body mass index (BMI) can reduce your risk for certain cancers.
Factors that may increase your risk for colon cancer include:
- Eating a diet high in processed meats and fat, and low in fiber from fruits and vegetables
- Being sedentary
- Having poor gut health and inflammation
- Consuming alcohol heavily (defined as more than two drinks per day for men and more than one drink per day for women)
- Smoking
Early symptoms of colorectal cancer
While it was previously thought that colorectal cancer was uncommon in those under 50, there is a worrisome rise of colorectal cancer diagnoses in people 40 and younger. No matter your age, if you are experiencing symptoms, consult your doctor. Visit the colorectal cancer page to learn more about symptoms.
Should you be screened for colorectal cancer?
The American Cancer Society recommends people at average risk start regular screening at age 45. People at increased or high risk may need to start screening earlier.
Take our Colorectal Cancer Risk Assessment to find out if you should be tested for colorectal cancer.
