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Behaviors that may help reduce risk for colon cancer

Livingston County News - 3/16/2017

Colorectal cancer is a formidable foe. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the United States.

Some risks for colorectal cancer are beyond an individual's control. For example, a personal or family history of polyps in the colon, rectum or both, significantly increases a person's risk of developing colorectal cancer. Lynch syndrome, a condition caused by gene mutations, causes polyps to develop in the lining of the colon, rectum or both. Since Lynch syndrome is inherited, there is nothing men and women can do to reduce their risk of developing it.

Research into colorectal cancer is ongoing, making it difficult for doctors to say certain behaviors or approaches reduce a person's risk of developing the disease. But there are things individuals can do that might help save them from colorectal cancer.

Get screened

The CDC notes that colorectal cancer usually begins when polyps form in the colon or rectum. Undetected, these polyps may turn into cancer. Screening can detect polyps early so they are found before they develop into cancer.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends colorectal cancer screening using high-sensitivity fecal occult blood testing, or FOBT; sigmoidoscopy; or colonoscopy for men and women between the ages of 50 and 75.

Embrace physical activity

While people who are physically active can still get colorectal cancer, those with sedentary lifestyles are at higher risk of developing the disease than those who are active.

Maintain a healthy weight

People who are overweight or obese have greater incidence rates of colorectal cancer than those who maintain healthy weights. Men with a high body mass index, or BMI, seem to be most at risk of developing colorectal cancer.

Limit alcohol consumption

The CDC notes that some studies have shown that limiting alcohol consumption may reduce a person's risk of developing colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer is a devastating disease, but men and women who embrace healthy behaviors may be able to lower their risks.

Help for screenings

Health insurance providers cover colon cancer screenings.

For those without a doctor or insurance, free colorectal screenings are available to those who qualify through the Cancer Services Partnership of Livingston and Wyoming Counties at 1 (800) 588-8670.

To learn about screening options, visit http://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/cancer/colorectal/screening.htm or call the Livingston County Department of Health Cancer Services Program at (585) 243-7299.