The Prevention & Detection of Colorectal Cancer

In 2016, it’s estimated there will be more than 95,000 new cases of colon cancer and more than 39,000 cases of rectal cancer diagnosed.

Research published in Pharmaceutical Research, suggested that only 5 - 10% of cancer cases are due to genetic defects, while the rest are linked to environment and lifestyle factors.

It is estimated that about half of all colorectal cancers could be avoided by:

1. Eating a healthy diet with more vegetables, some fruits and more fiber

2. Being physically active

3. Maintaining a healthy body weight and reducing belly fat

4. Optimizing your vitamin D levels

5. Limiting your vices, including alcohol consumption and don't smoke

6. Consuming more garlic

7. Reducing your stress levels

8. Avoiding processed meats and limiting your red meat intake

9. Maintaining healthy gut bacteria

Getting screened periodically can:

1. Find polyps and have them removed before they become cancerous

2. Catch colorectal cancer early, before it metastasizes (spreads)

Some of the most common screening methods include:

1. Colonoscopies (Standard & Virtual) & Sigmoidoscopies

2. Fecal occult blood tests

3. Cologuard test

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