Colorectal cancer is a daunting global health challenge, ranking as the third most prevalent cancer worldwide. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) predicts a growing trend, with over 35 million new cancer cases by the year 2050.
While colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in men and the second in women, it is also highly treatable if detected early. This is why it is so important for individuals to seek out regular health screenings to ensure that they are healthy and to give themselves a higher chance of recovery through early detection.
With March being Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, we wanted to help you understand colorectal cancer, its risk factors, and how certain lifestyle modifications can drastically reduce your risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Lifestyle Factors That Can Increase Colon Cancer Risk
While factors like age and family history play a role in your risk of developing colorectal cancer, your lifestyle choices can significantly impact your susceptibility to this disease.
Poor Dietary Habits
Certain dietary preferences and choices can have a significant impact on your risk of developing colorectal cancer. For example, red and highly processed meats are high in saturated fats and carcinogens, which have been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer in individuals.
Diets lacking in fibre-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can further increase this risk. This is because fibre plays a key role in promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation, which can help reduce the time that potentially harmful substances are in contact with the colon lining.
A Sedentary Lifestyle
A sedentary lifestyle, which many of us in Singapore are familiar with due to the nature of our jobs, can contribute to a myriad of health-related issues, including an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
When you’re sedentary, the digestive system may slow down, leading to constipation and potentially allowing harmful substances to linger in the colon for longer periods. This prolonged exposure increases the risk of damage to the colon lining, potentially contributing to the development of colon cancer.
Additionally, physical activity can help moderate inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, and promote hormone balance, all of which play roles in reducing the risk of colon cancer.
Tobacco and Alcohol Consumption
Tobacco and alcohol consumption are significant lifestyle factors that can increase the risk of developing colon cancer. Cigarettes contain multiple known carcinogens that can reach the colon through one’s bloodstream. These harmful chemicals can damage the cells lining the colon and rectum, increasing the risk of cancerous growths.
Similarly, alcohol can irritate the digestive tract, leading to inflammation and damage to the cells, which can contribute to the development of cancerous lesions.
Strategies to Reduce Colon Cancer Risk
Now that you have a clearer understanding of the lifestyle risk factors of colorectal cancer, we can take a look at some strategies to reduce your risk.
Adopting A Healthy & Well-Balanced Diet
As mentioned, a diet based heavily around red and processed meats can increase your risk of colorectal cancer. As such, it is important that you seek healthier alternatives that can provide you with a wide range of essential nutrients and vitamins. Look for fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants which help combat oxidative stress faced by the body, this can reduce the risk of cell damage and cancer development within the body.
Additionally, the high fibre content within fruits and vegetables lends towards promoting regular, healthy bowel movements.
Stay Physically Active
Find a way to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. This may be choosing the stairs over the elevator or adding an evening walk to your day. Exercise aids in maintaining a healthy weight while reducing inflammation within the body.
Regular physical activity is also linked to favourable changes within the gut’s microbiome, leading towards a healthier colon.
Maintain A Healthy Weight
Obesity is a common risk factor for colorectal cancer as the body is more prone to insulin resistance and inflammation. Including exercise in one’s daily habits and adjusting your diet can help you maintain a healthy weight.
Individuals should prioritise weight management through a combination of balanced dietary choices and routine physical activity.
Limit Tobacco And Alcohol
Limiting tobacco and alcohol consumption can be significant in reducing the risk of developing colon cancer.
To limit tobacco use, consider seeking support from smoking cessation programs or using nicotine replacement therapies. Additionally, adopting healthier habits like avoiding situations where you may be tempted to smoke and finding alternative coping mechanisms for stress can aid in quitting.
When it comes to alcohol, aim to consume alcoholic beverages in moderation or opt for non-alcoholic alternatives. Setting limits on the amount of alcohol consumed per day or week and finding other ways to unwind and relax can help reduce alcohol intake and lower the risk of colon cancer.
Undergo Regular Screenings
Colorectal cancer may be one of the most common cancers, however, it is also highly treatable if detected early. Regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, are crucial in detecting colorectal cancer at an early stage. Colonoscopies allow for the identification and removal of precancerous polyps, preventing the progression to colorectal cancer.
Alternatively, the Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) is a diagnostic screening tool used to detect the presence of hidden blood in the stool. The FOBT is a non-invasive test used to identify gastrointestinal bleeding, which may be indicative of conditions such as colorectal cancer, polyps, or other gastrointestinal disorders.
Guidelines And Recommendations For Colorectal Cancer Screenings In Singapore
Guidelines and recommendations for colorectal cancer screening in Singapore often take into account various factors, such as age, family history, and genetic considerations.
Age-Based Recommendations
Screening guidelines typically recommend starting regular colorectal cancer screening at the age of 50, as the risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with age.
Family History
If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you may be advised to undergo screening earlier than the general population.
Genetic Testing
Genetic testing may be recommended for individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or hereditary conditions, such as Lynch syndrome. These genetic tests can identify specific mutations that increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Early detection can improve your chances of making a full recovery by up to 90%. This is why it is so important that you schedule regular health screenings to ensure that your body is in the pink of health.
Schedule A Colorectal Cancer Screening With G&L Surgical Clinic
Regular consultations with a doctor, adherence to screening guidelines, and making healthier choices are all pivotal steps in reducing your risk of colorectal cancer.
If you are concerned about your risk of developing colorectal cancer, make an appointment with us. Our friendly staff and Dr Ganesh Ramalingam will be happy to assist you in scheduling regular health screenings tailored to your needs.
