Top 10 Ways to Reduce Colorectal Cancer Risk You Need to Know

In 2011, comprehensive reviews and overall analyses of potential studies on colorectal cancer published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention revealed that improving vitamin D levels is beneficial for colorectal cancer. Vitamin D regulates cell development, limits inflammation, and even inhibits the spread of cancer cells.

Recently, scientists at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute discovered that high-dose vitamin D supplementation with chemotherapy could benefit patients with metastatic colorectal cancer by delaying the progression of the disease. This promising result was found in the SUNSHINE clinical trial, helping patients recognize the potential benefits of vitamin D supplementation in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer. A larger trial will be conducted later this year throughout the United States to further investigate this issue, said Dr. Kimmie, Director of Clinical Research at the Dana-Farber Gastrointestinal Cancer Center. Additionally, this is the first study to demonstrate the many treatment benefits of vitamin D supplementation in the progression or metastasis of colorectal cancer.

Vitamin D is an essential vitamin for bone health, produced in the body through a sunlight-dependent chemical reaction and found in certain foods. In laboratory studies, vitamin D has demonstrated anti-cancer properties such as activating cell death, inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, and reducing metastatic potential. Moreover, they observed that higher vitamin D blood levels were associated with lower colorectal cancer risk, potentially improving patient survival. However, this has not been conclusively proven that vitamin D is the main supporting factor in treatment.

You can expose yourself to early morning sunlight without sunscreen for about 15 minutes/day to help your body produce vitamin D. Additionally, consume foods rich in vitamin D such as fish, egg yolks, milk, or fortified cereals. Alongside this, avoid foods preserved with sodium nitrite, reduce sugar intake, and avoid excess salt as well as fried foods. Furthermore, drink plenty of water to improve digestion and overall health.

A well-planned diet plays a crucial role in preventing colorectal cancer. It's essential to incorporate foods rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals for anti-cancer benefits. Scientific studies confirm the significant impact of daily dietary choices on cancer susceptibility. Certain foods have been proven to reduce the risk of cancer. During cancer treatment and prevention, patients should tailor their diets based on the type of cancer, the disease stage, and their overall health. However, the general principles include choosing easily digestible foods, catering to personal tastes, dividing meals, and ensuring adequate energy and nutrient intake to maintain health and resist diseases.

Due to higher daytime digestion and absorption rates, it's advisable to increase food intake during breakfast and lunch rather than dinner. Protein intake should be higher than usual, with sources such as soybeans, eggs, fish, sea cucumbers, blood clams, abalones, chicken, and duck providing excellent protein for cancer patients. To compensate for metabolic changes and minimize the side effects of cancer treatment, patients need to stay hydrated.

In some cases where normal eating is challenging, such as due to tumor compression or psychological reasons... tube feeding or intravenous nutrition may be applied. In these situations, it's crucial to ensure adequate nutrition, including proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. In the stable phase of the disease, a well-balanced diet is still necessary to enhance health and nutritional status.

Emphasize consuming fruits and vegetables with thick skins, less prone to pesticide absorption, such as grapefruits, coconuts, papayas, bananas, dragon fruits, pumpkin, red pumpkin, jicama, sweet potatoes, peanuts, and young corn. Leafy greens like water spinach, amaranth, coriander, and broccoli... Avoid watercress as it may pose a bleeding risk. Pay attention to vegetables grown in polluted environments, contaminated with heavy metals like lead, arsenic...

Additionally, consider using synthetic vitamins or daily mineral supplements in small doses. Limit the intake of processed foods containing preservatives, and opt for cooking methods like boiling, steaming, low flame, avoiding techniques like grilling, smoking, frying, or sugaring meats during food preparation. Use coconut oil, olive oil... with cold-pressed technology (without cancer-causing preservatives) in food processing to provide more energy and maintain cell membrane sustainability, preventing energy loss.

• Consume half to 2 cups of steamed or boiled kale, 3 times a week
• Drink 3-4 cups of green tea daily instead of coffee
• Eat 1 sliced tomato cup daily
• Drink 2-3 cups of ginger tea daily and add ginger to various dishes
• Eat 2-3 raw garlic cloves daily
• Consume 1 cup of bok choy (3-4 times a week) by adding it to salads, soups, or mixed vegetable juices
• Eat half to 1 cup of grapes daily

The American Cancer Society recommends colorectal cancer screening to begin at the age of 45 for individuals with a family history of the disease. Others should undergo screening starting at the age of 50. While screening doesn't cure colorectal cancer, it enables early detection, making treatment more manageable.

Colorectal cancer is a type that develops in the colon and rectum. It is a prevalent digestive system cancer, ranking third in incidence and fourth in mortality globally. In 2016, it was estimated that over 134,000 new cases of colorectal cancer were diagnosed in the United States, with over 49,000 deaths attributed to the disease. In Vietnam, according to the 2012 Globocan statistics, colorectal cancer ranked fifth in new cases and fourth in mortality among all cancers. It is closely linked to diet, lifestyle, and its incidence is increasing.

Screening is the process of detecting cancer or precancerous conditions in individuals without clinical symptoms. Regular screening for colorectal cancer is the most crucial weapon in early diagnosis and treatment. The mortality rate from colorectal cancer has decreased in recent years, and one reason is the early detection of polyps in the colon during screening before they develop into cancer. A colorectal polyp takes 10-15 years to develop into cancer. Regular screening helps detect and remove polyps before they become cancerous, preventing many cases of colorectal cancer. Regular screening also aids in early detection when the tumor is small, non-invasive, hasn't metastasized, and is easier to treat.

When colorectal cancer is detected early, the 5-year survival rate reaches approximately 90%. Unfortunately, in the United States, only 4 out of 10 cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed at an early stage. The survival rate drops significantly when colorectal cancer has invaded and metastasized. Regrettably, just over 50% of Americans at risk of colorectal cancer undergo screening. In Vietnam, there is currently no community-based colorectal cancer screening program, and most patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage.

While it's impossible to completely prevent colorectal cancer, the risk can be reduced through screening and controlling modifiable risk factors. Other screening methods include colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, fecal occult blood test, and immunochemical fecal testing. Consult with your doctor to determine the most suitable screening tests for you.

The colon (large intestine) and rectum (lower part of the large intestine) are components of the digestive system responsible for expelling waste from food. Similar to other parts of the body, the colon and rectum are built with tiny building blocks called cells. Like bricks in a house, cells construct the human body. However, sometimes these cells grow uncontrollably, turning into cancer cells. When cancer starts in the colon or rectum, it's called colorectal cancer, sometimes referred to as colon cancer.

Colorectal cancer is a malignant disease originating in the colon. Cells in the colon mutate into cancer cells, excessively proliferating and forming tumors, damaging the colon. Cancer cells also have the ability to metastasize to other organs such as lymph nodes, the abdominal lining, liver, ovaries,...

Smokers often produce more phlegm than non-smokers, and their ability to clear phlegm from the respiratory tract is reduced due to impaired clearance mechanisms. Additionally, cigarette smoke alters the structure of mucus-secreting glands, making them more susceptible to harmful substances and hindering air circulation and gas exchange. Smoking is highly detrimental to health, causing not only lung cancer but also cancers of other organs such as the mouth, stomach, digestive organs, etc. Cancer patients, at any stage, should quit smoking immediately, especially during treatment.

Long-term smoking increases the risk of developing colorectal cancer as well as lung, stomach, and esophageal cancers. Cigarette smoke contains numerous carcinogens causing DNA damage that is difficult to repair. Therefore, individuals with smoking habits should quit immediately, ensuring their own health and not compromising the well-being of their loved ones.

People can also reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by changing daily habits, such as: limiting consumption of meat, animal fats, and processed foods; eating a variety of fruits and vegetables to supplement vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. These substances can help prevent cancer; restricting alcohol consumption and quitting smoking; engaging in regular physical exercise to improve health and weight control.

Red meat includes: beef, lamb, pork, veal, venison, goat. Excludes: turkey, duck, goose, poultry, chicken, rabbit. Numerous studies have shown that frequent consumption of red meat has many health risks, as it contains high levels of cholesterol and saturated fat, posing risks of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, cancer...

According to a recent report by the World Health Organization, red meat, such as beef, lamb, and pork, has been classified as a Group 2A carcinogen, meaning it has the potential to cause cancer, especially colorectal cancer. This conclusion is based on research commissioned by the Cancer Council in 2010, estimating that in Australia, every 2600 people would have 1 case of cancer related to excessive red meat consumption. On the other hand, a diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables also has the potential to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.

In addition, the U.S. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences examined cooking and meat consumption in over 42,000 women in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. The report stated that over 1,500 women developed breast cancer during an average follow-up period of 7.5 years. The results showed that consuming red and processed meat increased the risk of breast cancer by 23%. Therefore, researchers advise women to switch from red meat to poultry to reduce the risk of various cancers, especially breast cancer. Moreover, red meat may increase the risk of heart diseases due to its high cholesterol content. Consuming less meat is also related to reducing the obesity rate in both children and adults.

Health experts in the UK recommend, based on the National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS), that the average person should not consume more than 70g of beef per day. According to research, most of us are exceeding the recommended amount of meat in our meals. If the daily intake of red meat reaches 90g, the risk of developing colorectal diseases, especially colorectal cancer, is much higher. Therefore, reducing the amount of red meat in each meal, about 70g - equivalent to a slice of beef, will help ensure sufficient nutrients without compromising health.

A study in 2010 published in the Cancer Research Journal found a correlation between consuming red meat (such as beef, dog meat...) or oily fast foods and an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. If red meat is your preference, limit it to 4 ounces per week. Additionally, opt for lean meat instead of fatty meat, and avoid grilled, fried, or smoked meats, sausages, fast food...

Until now, no medication has been recognized to be effective against this disease. However, scientists have recently proven that soluble fiber plays a significant role in preventing colorectal cancer. Soluble fiber passing through the intestines forms a gel that slows down the absorption of some nutrients into the blood and increases the fecal volume, stimulating bowel movements.

Moreover, fiber in the large intestine enhances the fermentation ability of the existing bacteria with polysaccharides, producing short-chain acids as an energy source for the aged mucosal cells. Therefore, a diet lacking in fiber can have unfavorable consequences, with a high risk of colorectal cancer. Consuming vegetables not only provides sufficient fiber and vitamins to the body but also improves digestive system performance. In particular, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, rich in fiber, promotes smooth bowel movements and ensures a clean colon.

A balanced diet is an easy measure to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. The global medical community recommends supplementing calcium and folic acid in the daily diet to enhance health. Folic acid is abundant in legumes such as soybeans, peas, and lentils. This food group is the richest in fiber, stimulating bowel movements to prevent colorectal cancer. Green vegetables such as kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and fruits like papaya, sweet potatoes should be consumed regularly. Besides providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the body, they contain many compounds capable of inhibiting the development of colorectal cancer cells and limiting the metastasis of this cancer.

The habit of consuming excessive red meat and animal fats is actively advised to be limited, not only in preventing colorectal cancer but also in preventing many other diseases. Restricting alcohol consumption, preferably quitting smoking as early as possible. Maintain daily physical activity and exercise. Good physical condition also has the ability to resist diseases, enhance immunity against diseases. Maintain stable weight should also be closely monitored.

Supplementing fiber, you can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer as well as mouth, throat, prostate, and esophageal cancer. Consuming plenty of fiber shortens the time waste travels through the large intestine. This prevents colon cells from being affected by carcinogens. You can increase fiber from sources such as wheat, oats, whole grains, or green vegetables...

A recent study published in the Cancer Journal reveals that high levels of physical activity reduce the risk of developing lung and colorectal cancer. To significantly lower the risk of colorectal cancer, it's crucial to exercise for over 30 minutes daily. According to the British Medical Journal, this can lead to a substantial risk reduction.

Another study by the American Cancer Society tracked nearly 2,300 cancer patients. They also found that even 2 hours and 30 minutes of walking each week could have a significant impact on mortality rates. Exercise promotes a healthy and efficient digestive system, thus helping to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Scientific studies also link body fat levels measured by BMI (body mass index) and indicate a 15% increased risk of colorectal cancer for every 5kg/m2.

Individuals adopting a healthy lifestyle, including exercising for more than 30 minutes daily, can lower the risk of colorectal cancer, according to a study published online in October in the British Medical Journal. In fact, according to researchers from the Danish Cancer Epidemiology Institute, colorectal cancer can be prevented by up to 23% with regular physical activity. This study was based on a survey of 55,489 men and women aged 50-64 and conducted over a period of nearly 10 years.

One of the main causes of colorectal cancer is a sedentary lifestyle. According to the results of a study in 2014 published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, physical activity is linked to an increased risk of cancers such as colorectal, endometrial, lung, as well as diseases related to diabetes, obesity, and heart.

For a healthy body, daily exercise is essential. Just spend about 30 minutes each day walking, cycling, swimming, dancing, or simply gardening, and you'll significantly improve your overall health.

According to statistics, nearly 1 million people worldwide are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year, with men having a higher incidence than women. Colorectal cancer ranks second among the most common cancers in men, following prostate cancer. Vietnamese men are no exception to this trend. Why do men have a higher risk of colorectal cancer than women?

Some researchers suggest that men often have unhealthy and less scientific habits and lifestyles compared to women. Regular smoking, stimulant use, and alcohol consumption are among the leading causes of colorectal cancer in men.

A study published in the international scientific journal Gastroenterology states that smoking increases the risk of developing colorectal cancer by 2.14 times compared to non-smokers. According to this study, individuals who smoke continuously, one pack per day for 50 years or two packs per day for 25 years, will double the risk of developing colorectal polyps compared to non-smokers. Research results show that 20-25% of colorectal cancer cases are attributed to smoking.

Additionally, individuals who both smoke and drink alcohol have a higher risk. This explains why men have a higher incidence of colorectal cancer than women. Therefore, to prevent the risk of colorectal cancer, it's advisable to limit alcohol consumption, quit smoking, and avoid other stimulants.

To help prevent colorectal cancer, it's best to limit alcohol consumption or abstain from it altogether. Alongside colorectal cancer, alcohol is also a risk factor for oral, throat, esophageal, liver, and breast cancers. Excessive alcohol consumption leads to DNA changes in cells, gradually leading to cancer formation. Moreover, bacteria in the colon can metabolize alcohol into acetaldehyde, one of the cancer-causing substances. Hence, the American Cancer Society recommends not exceeding 2 drinks per day for men and 1 drink per day for women.

Eliminating excess fat around the waist not only gives you a slender waistline for a more attractive appearance but also helps reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Research indicates that overweight and obese individuals are at a higher risk of colorectal cancer compared to others. If you are overweight, start with a balanced diet and at least 30 minutes of daily exercise to control and gradually lose weight. Consult with your doctor for effective measures to achieve your goals.

Both men and women who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop colorectal cancer. The risk is particularly high for men, especially those with excess abdominal fat. A study published in October 2018 in the JAMA Oncology journal followed the health of over 85,000 women for 22 years and found that the higher a woman's body mass index (BMI), the greater the risk of developing colorectal cancer before the age of 50.

The study revealed that women aged 20 to 49 who are overweight or obese have twice the risk of developing colorectal cancer early compared to those with a low BMI. By eliminating excess fat around the waist, you not only achieve a slim waistline for a more attractive appearance but also reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Overweight and obese individuals are shown to have a higher risk of colorectal cancer compared to others.

Fat in the body serves two main functions: storing energy and continuously transmitting information and signals to the rest of the body. This information can affect cell growth, chemical reactions within cells, and the body's reproductive cycle. When there is too much fat in the body, the signals transmitted throughout the body can cause disorders and become a source of cancer.

If you are overweight, start with a balanced diet and at least 30 minutes of daily exercise to control and gradually lose weight. Consult with your doctor for effective measures to achieve your goals.