Bowel cancer cases are also increasing among young people. In the UK, around 44 people are diagnosed with the disease each year, while around 17 die from it.
Experts warn that although the risk increases with age, in recent years more and more people under 50 are being affected by this disease.
Researchers suspect that highly processed foods, microplastics and the rise of inflammatory bowel disease may be among the factors driving this trend. The first signs are often persistent changes in bowel function – such as constipation or diarrhea – blood in the stool, abdominal pain, fatigue and unexplained weight loss.
However, according to experts, more than half of colon cancer cases can be prevented through lifestyle and early diagnosis.
1. Eat a healthy, high-fiber diet
Reducing your intake of red meat and especially processed meats – such as bacon and sausage – can reduce your risk. Regular consumption of these has been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. Instead, a diet rich in fiber, found in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes and nuts, is recommended.
Fiber helps maintain normal bowel function and reduces the time that potentially harmful substances remain in contact with the intestinal wall. Also, during processing, intestinal bacteria produce substances with anti-inflammatory effects that help protect cells.
2. Limit processed meat
Experts suggest that consumption of red and processed meat should not exceed about 70 grams per day. The more frequent and greater the consumption, the higher the risk.
3. Stay physically active
A sedentary lifestyle is considered one of the main factors that increase the risk of many diseases, including cancer. Physical activity helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that damages cells.
Recent studies have shown that even a short workout – about 10 minutes – can affect biological mechanisms that inhibit the development of colon cancer.
4. Limit screen time
A study of nearly 430 participants found that people who spend more than five hours a day watching television are about 30% more likely to develop colon cancer compared to those who limit this time to one hour.
5. Maintain a healthy body weight
Overweight and obesity are thought to be responsible for at least 11% of cases of this disease. Excess fat, especially in the abdominal area, can cause insulin resistance and hormonal changes that favor the development of cancer.
6. Manage stress
Constant stress can negatively affect the immune system and the body's overall health. Practices like meditation or relaxation techniques can have a positive impact.
7. Get enough sleep
Irregular sleep patterns have been linked in some studies to an increased risk of cancer. Good sleep helps the body repair itself and keeps the immune system strong.
8. Limit alcohol
The World Health Organization emphasizes that there is no completely safe level of alcohol consumption when it comes to cancer risk. Alcohol is converted in the body into a toxic substance that can damage cells and promote cancerous mutations.
9. Do not smoke
Smokers are more likely to develop polyps in the colon – non-cancerous growths that over time can turn into cancer if left untreated.
10. Pay attention to symptoms
Blood in the stool, persistent abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss should be discussed with a doctor. Early detection greatly increases the chance of recovery.
11. Get checkups and screening tests
Many cases of colon cancer begin as polyps in the colon wall. If detected early, they can be removed during a colonoscopy and prevent cancer from developing.
Stool screening tests can detect small amounts of blood that are not visible to the naked eye and may be an early sign of the disease. Early diagnosis significantly increases the chance of successful treatment and reduces the need for serious treatments. /GazetaExpress/
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