Health Hints
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
by Deborah Maqueira, Health Educator, Washington County Health Department
Colorectal cancer, cancer of the colon or rectum, is the second
leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States for
both men and women. The disease surpasses both breast and prostate cancer
in mortality, second only to lung cancer in numbers of cancer deaths.
There are steps you can take to prevent colorectal cancer. Regular screenings are important because most cases of the disease begin as non-cancerous polyps, grape-like growths on the lining of the colon and rectum. Often, these polyps do not cause any specific symptoms, but can later become cancerous. Removing these polyps can prevent colorectal cancer from ever developing.
Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are also important to help prevent the disease. Studies have shown a relationship between physical activity, obesity and levels of prostaglandins, substances associated with colorectal cancer.
There is a significant reduction in prostaglandins in men and women who exercise and have a lower Body Mass Index (BMI) (weight divided by the square of height).
Research also suggests that eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may help prevent cancer and other diseases in general. These foods can also help you maintain your weight. In addition, whole grains from breads, cereals, nuts and beans may also provide protective effects.
To learn more about preventing colorectal cancer, visit:
http://www.preventcancer.org/colorectal
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