Americans have long been aware of the negative effects that alcohol abuse, lack of exercise and obesity have on our health. However, according to a recent study, many do not know that this is also a deadly trifecta that could lead to colon cancer.
Colon and rectal cancers are surging among people under 50 years old, continuing a trend that began 20 years ago, research shows. This means many are developing cancer before the age at which colonoscopies are recommended.
"We know that screening colonoscopy saves lives by detecting the disease in its earliest and often precancerous state, but it's not recommended for a person of average risk before age 45 right now," said researcher Dr. Matthew Kaladay, chief of colorectal surgery at the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center.
According to the study, less than half of Americans (49%) know that alcohol is a risk factor for colorectal cancer, two in five (42%) are aware that living a sedentary lifestyle is a risk factor and 38% do not recognize obesity, or a high-fat, processed American diet (37%) as determining factors.
Four out of five people did know that family history is a risk factor for colon cancer.The groups that were most at risk, Black and Brown people, displayed the least amount of knowledge regarding how lifestyle factors into colorectal cancer.
African Americans are more likely to develop and die of colon cancer than any other group, and cases are rising among Hispanic Americans as well, according to the American Cancer Society.
"It's important for people to understand that many factors contribute to colorectal cancer risk, and it is never too late to make changes to help reduce risk where you have the power to do so," Kaladay said.
Kaladay recommends that people eat a diet high in fiber, low in fat and red meat, with four to six servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
"Those changes won't just impact your cancer risk, they will likely improve your health overall," Kaladay said.
"The more weight that you carry above your ideal weight puts you at a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer, so taking some simple but important steps -- like a healthy diet and regular, moderate exercise -- go a long way for overall health," Kalady added.
Symptoms can include rectal bleeding, sudden changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, and abdominal pain.
