How to Prevent Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is an abnormal growth of cells and tissue (tumor) in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine. If colorectal cancer is not found or prevented early, it can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body and can be fatal.

You are more likely to develop this condition if:

• You are older than age 50.
• You have a family history of colorectal cancer or genetic conditions, such as:
  • Lynch syndrome.
  • Familial adenomatous polyposis.
  • Turcot syndrome.
  • Peutz–Jeghers syndrome.
• You have had cancer before.
• You have multiple growths (polyps) in the colon or rectum.
• You have certain other conditions, such as an inflammatory bowel disease or Crohn’s disease.
• You are African American.
• You have diabetes.
• You have an inactive (sedentary) lifestyle.
• You eat a diet that is high in red or processed meat and high in fat (especially animal fat).
• You eat a diet that is low in sources of fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• You drink alcohol excessively.
• You smoke.

It is important to have colorectal cancer tests (screenings) to check for early signs of cancer. During a screening, polyps may be removed and examined to check for cancer cells and possibly to prevent them from becoming cancerous. In addition to regular screenings, making changes to your diet and lifestyle can help prevent colorectal cancer.

What nutrition changes can be made?

• Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. You need 1½‒2 cups of fruit each day. You also need 2½‒3 cups of vegetables each day.
• Eat whole grains, which are grains that have not been processed. They include oats, whole wheat, bulgur, brown rice, quinoa, and millet. You should eat 6‒8 oz (171–227 g) of grains each day. Use a kitchen scale to measure these amounts.
• Eat less red meat. Instead, choose low-fat (lean) sources of protein such as beans, tofu, fish, and chicken.
• Avoid processed meat, such as deli meat, bacon, and sausage. Avoid frying and cooking meat at high heat. Use other methods of cooking, such as steaming or sautéeing.

What lifestyle changes can be made?

• Do not use any products that contain nicotine or tobacco, such as cigarettes and e-cigarettes. If you need help quitting, ask your health care provider.
• Limit alcohol intake to no more than 1 drink a day for nonpregnant women and 2 drinks a day for men. One drink equals 12 oz of beer, 5 oz of wine, or 1½ oz of hard liquor.
• If you are overweight or obese, work with your health care provider to lose weight.
• Exercise. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise (like walking, biking, or yoga) or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise (like running or swimming) each week. Ask your health care provider how much physical activity is best for you.
• Have regular screenings as often as recommended by your health care provider.
  • All adults should have screenings starting at age 50 and continuing until age 75. Your health care provider may recommend screening at age 45. You will have tests every 1–10 years, depending on your results and the type of screening test. People at increased risk should start screening at an earlier age.
  • There are several types of screening tests. They include:
    • Guaiac-based fecal occult blood testing.
    • Fecal immunochemical test (FIT).
    • Stool DNA test.
    • Virtual colonoscopy.
    • Sigmoidoscopy. During this test, a flexible tube with a tiny camera (sigmoidoscope) is used to examine your rectum and lower colon. The sigmoidoscope is inserted through your anus into your rectum and lower colon.
    • Colonoscopy. During this test, a long, thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera (colonoscope) is used to examine your entire colon and rectum.
• Ask your health care provider if you should take baby aspirin to help prevent polyps.
• Do not ignore symptoms. Schedule a visit with your health care provider if you experience:
  • Blood in your stool.
  • Discomfort, pain, bloating, fullness, or cramps in your abdomen.
  • A change in your bowel habits.
  • Unexplained weight loss.
  • Anemia.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Constant fatigue.
• Find out about your family’s medical history. It is important to know whether colorectal cancer is in your family. If you feel that you have a strong family history, ask to meet with a genetic counselor.

Why are these changes important?

Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of death from cancer. Making these changes can help you reduce your risk. Getting recommended screenings means that signs of cancer can be found and treated early.

What can happen if changes are not made?

If you do not make changes, you may have an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. If you delay recommended screenings, it is possible that any existing cancer will grow and spread before it is found. Cancer that is larger or has spread is more difficult to treat and cure.

Where to find support

To get support for preventing colorectal cancer, consider:

• Talking with your health care provider. Ask about screenings and support groups.

Where to find more information

Learn more about colorectal cancer from:

• The American Cancer Society: www.cancer.org  
• The National Cancer Institute: www.cancer.gov  

Summary

• You can reduce your chances of getting colorectal cancer by getting recommended screenings and making certain nutritional and lifestyle changes.
• Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid red meats and processed meats.
• Do not use any products that contain nicotine or tobacco, such as cigarettes and e-cigarettes. If you need help quitting, ask your health care provider.
• Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week. Ask your health care provider how much activity is best for you.
• Get regular screenings as often as recommended by your health care provider. Most people should have a colonoscopy at age 50.