On average, your risk of getting colon cancer is 1 in 20, varying a bit according to individual risk factors. The good news is that colon cancer is highly preventable when you adopt healthy lifestyle habits.
EAT HEALTHY: Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables will lower your overall risk for cancer. To prevent colon cancer, limit your consumption of red and processed meats (bacon, hamburger, sausage, hotdogs) and other foods with a high fat content (French fries, chips). Eating foods with high fiber (apples, carrots, beans, whole grain bread) will help too.
STAY ACTIVE: Aim for exercising or walking at least 30 minutes/day. Make it fun—doing an activity you enjoy like dancing, walking with a friend/pet, or trying a new sport.
QUIT TOBACCO: Long-term cigarette smoking is associated with a higher risk of colon cancer, even after accounting for known risk factors such as race, body mass index, and a family history of the disease, according to a new study by American Cancer Society. Smoking cessation support is available from Riverwood Wellness Coach Dan Schletty, (218) 927-5168 or dschletty@riverwoodhealthcare.org
LIMIT ALCOHOL USE: Alcohol use has been linked with a higher risk of cancers of the colon and rectum. If you drink alcohol, limit how much you drink. Low to moderate use is usually defined as 1-2 drinks a day for a man or 1 drink a day for a woman.
Learn more on your risk for colon cancer by taking this quiz http://www.ccalliance.org/riskquiz/ Watch this video on three things you can do to prevent colon cancer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCFOs8kRE6o#t=57
If there is any history of cancer in your family of if you are age 50 or older, ask your healthcare provider about getting screened for colon cancer. For more information on screening, go to http://www.cancer.org/search/index?QueryText=colorectal+cancer+screening&Page=1
Looking for wellness information? Visit the wellness page on Riverwood’s website. This is a one-stop source of information on both Riverwood wellness resources, such as services and education, and Community wellness resources with info on classes, programs, recreational opportunities and more.