Five Ways to Keep Your Colon Healthy
Small, healthy choices today can make a big difference in keeping your colon healthy for years to come.
Not “just” a disease for older men, colon cancer is the third-most common cancer in both men and women in the U.S. and is affecting younger people at alarming rates.
Here are 5 ways to keep your colon healthy:
1. Get colorectal cancer screening starting at age 45
Colon and rectal cancer screening can find cancer early, before symptoms start. If you have a family history or other risk factors, you may need screening earlier. Black Americans are at higher risk of dying from colon cancer, partly because it is often found later.
At-home screening tests, such as the FIT test or Cologuard®, are easy to use and can help detect signs of cancer. If results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy.
Any screening is better than no screening. A colonoscopy is the best way to find and remove polyps before they turn into cancer. If your colonoscopy is normal and you have no major risk factors, you may not need another one for 10 years.
2. Maintain a healthy weight
Being overweight increases the risk of getting adenomas, polyps that are more likely to become cancer.
3. Watch what you eat and drink
What you eat can affect your colon cancer risk. Eating a lot of red meat and processed meats, such as bacon, hot dogs, sausage, deli meats, and jerky, may increase your risk. Drinking alcohol can also raise your risk.
You don't have to give up your favorite foods completely. Instead, try to eat them less often and choose more whole, unprocessed foods. Eating vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and kale may help protect your colon. Foods high in fiber, such as whole grains, may also lower your risk of colon cancer.
4. Get moving
Stay active to help lower your colon cancer risk. Not getting enough exercise and sitting for long periods of time may increase your risk. Look for small ways to move more throughout the day, such as taking short walks, stretching, or using the stairs. Set a reminder to stand up and move around every hour. Every little bit of activity can make a difference.
5. Quit smoking
Smoking tobacco increases the risk of many types of cancer, including colon cancer. Our smoking-cessation program can help you quit for good.
If you’re 45 or older, it’s time to get screened.
Talk with your primary care provider about which screening option is best for you. To schedule an appointment, call 216-My-Metro or schedule online.
MetroHealth provides colonoscopies at the following locations:
For more information, visit metrohealth.org/colon-cancer-screenings.