Although colorectal cancer is one of the leading cancers, it is also a preventable disease. Usually, it takes time to progress from normal mucous membranes to hyperplastic polyps, to adenomas, to early-stage cancers and advanced cancers. As the disease progresses, we can prevent colorectal cancer from developing by adhering to a healthy lifestyle. Here are some suggestions:
1. Avoid obesity and maintain a healthy weight. Obesity increases the risk of colorectal cancer, so maintaining a proper weight can help prevent the disease from occurring.
2. Avoid eating large amounts of processed meat. Processed meats such as sausages and ham contain a lot of fat and salt, and long-term intake will increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Therefore, one should reduce the intake of processed meat and eat more fresh vegetables and fruits.
3. Drink less sugary drinks. Sugar-sweetened drinks not only contain a lot of sugar, but they also lack nutritional value, and long-term consumption can increase the risk of obesity and diabetes, both of which may increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Therefore, one should reduce the intake of sugar-sweetened beverages and drink more healthy drinks such as water or green tea.
4. Consume more dietary fiber. Dietary fiber can help remove waste and toxins from the intestines, maintain intestinal health, and prevent the occurrence of colorectal cancer. It is recommended to eat more foods rich in dietary fiber, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes.
5. Moderate sun exposure. Moderate sun exposure can help the body make vitamin D, which prevents diseases such as osteoporosis and colorectal cancer. However, excessive sun exposure may cause damage, so you should get in the sun in moderation and take sun protection measures.
As long as we adhere to a healthy lifestyle and maintain an appropriate weight, early screening can prevent the occurrence of colorectal cancer to a large extent. Gastrointestinal oncologist Xiang Rong