Steps to Prevent Colorectal Cancer

Interventions That Have Been Proposed

Comment

To reduce weight if obese.

Obesity has been correlated with an increased risk for colon cancer.

To stop smoking if a smoker.

Smoking may increase the risk of colon cancer. Smoking cessaton improves general health.

To reduce alcohol intake if a heavy drinker.

Excessive alcohol use may increase the risk of colon cancer.

To have a diet low in fat and red meat.

A diet low in fat and red meat may reduce the frequency of adenomas.

To have a diet high in fiber.

Not proven to be preventive. Fiber may improve regularity.

To have a diet high in fruits and vegetables.

Not proven to be preventive. Fruits and vegetables may complement a low fat, low red meat diet. They may also help to reduce obesity.

To take an NSAID regularly.

Not recommended because the risk of bleeding and other adverse effects. These drugs may reduce the frequency of adenomas.

To engage in moderate physical activity.

Helps to maintain lower body weight.

Periodic colonoscopy with resection of colonic adenomas.

Effective in removing adenomas before they can become malignant.

Colonic resection in high risk patients (high grade dysplasia, polyposis, etc)

Surgery may be helpful in a patient who is probably going to develop colon cancer eventually.