(GoHealthier.com)
The big ‘C’, or cancer, is enough to strike fear into the hearts of us all. Very few lives go untouched by cancer in some way, and devastating are the highly treatable cancers that go undetected until they reach untreatable stages. Although screening for cancer and treatment has improved immensely over the years, certain cancers are on the rise in younger people. One cancer that is having a surge of occurrence in people under 50 is colon cancer. While colorectal cancer has a 90% survival rate if caught early, the incidence in younger people means that too many cases aren’t being detected early enough. This rise of colon cancer in people under 50, often referred to as early-onset colorectal cancer, is something we should all have on our radars and beware of the risk factors and ways to mitigate these risks. Several factors contribute to this trend:
Genetics and Family History:
- Some cases are linked to inherited genetic mutations like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). If you have a family history of colon cancer or these genetic conditions, your risk is higher.
Diet and Lifestyle:
- Diets high in red and processed meats, low in fiber, and high in refined sugars have been associated with a higher risk of colon cancer.
- Sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and smoking are also risk factors.
Inflammation and Gut Health:
- Chronic inflammation in the gut, often from conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), increases the risk.
- The gut microbiome’s role in cancer development is being studied, with some evidence suggesting that an unhealthy gut microbiome may contribute to cancer risk.
Environmental and Lifestyle Changes:
- Changes in lifestyle and environment over the past few decades, including increased consumption of processed foods and sedentary behavior, may be contributing to the rise in cases.
How to Minimize Your Risk:
Screening:
- Start screening at the age recommended for your risk category. For most people, screening starts at 45, but those with higher risk factors may need to begin earlier.
Healthy Diet:
- Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Reduce red and processed meat consumption.
Regular Exercise:
- Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
Maintain a Healthy Weight:
- Obesity is a risk factor for colon cancer, so maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is important.
Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol:
- Smoking and heavy alcohol use increase your risk of colon cancer.
Know Your Family History:
- If you have a family history of colon cancer or genetic conditions associated with it, consider genetic counseling and earlier screening.
Manage Chronic Conditions:
- If you have inflammatory bowel disease or other chronic conditions that increase your risk, work with your healthcare provider to manage them effectively.
By understanding these factors and taking proactive steps, you can reduce your risk of developing colon cancer. Regular check-ups and staying informed about your health are key. The good news is that awareness around the prevalence of colon cancer in younger people is growing, and you can help spread the news to help keep yourself and loved ones safe.
Copyright 2024, GoHealthier.com
