What can you do to lower your colon cancer risk?

An estimated 148,000 Americans will be diagnosed with colon cancer in 2006. The statistics from the American Cancer Society state that in 2005, there were 56,290 deaths from colon cancer. This is one of the easiest cancers to detect and avoid, however, with a simple stool test or a more comprehensive test.

Although family history does not guarantee you are at greater risk, it does mean that person should take greater care to reduce their other risks. Ways to decrease risk is by cutting down processed foods, animal protein and fats, which we’ll talk about below, get adequate exercise, lose weight if you are obese, stop smoking and cut down drinking. It has also been shown that risk can be decreased by eating a diet high in fiber and fruits and vetegables, and getting adequate calcium, vitamin D and vitamin E.

Listen as Margie talks about several studies that look at the role processed meats play in colon cancer, what studies say about the role fat plays in this cancer, and then what the recommendations are to decrease your risk, today.

Taking steps today to live healthy will make your tomorrows more enjoyable. We all want to live long, healthy, happy lives.

For more on the role diet appears to play in cancer, read this EPIC study report by clicking here.

To read a report on studies related to obesity and colon cancer, click here.

For the role fiber plays in colon cancer, click here.

Listen here.