Exercise is key to preventing colon cancer
You know that regular exercise is good for your heart, muscles, joints and bones – but you may not know that it's one of the easiest ways to prevent colon cancer. A sedentary lifestyle accounts for an estimated 14 percent of colon cancer cases in this country. People who exercise frequently reduce their risk by 30 percent to 40 percent, according to the study from the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Cheltenham, Penn.
The researchers' analysis of survey responses from 1,932 people found that only 15 percent were using physical activity as a way to reduce their colon cancer risk.
Sedentary people can greatly benefit from starting a modest exercise program. Walking is a tried-and-true option. But don't forget about gardening or a bowling league— your interests and abilities are the only limit.
The researchers noted that more benefits accrue from more intense exercise. But the biggest jump in prevention comes from moving sedentary people to light exercise.
Colon cancer can develop slowly over many years. Indeed, age is a major risk factor for colon cancer, as it is for other cancers. Many times, the first sign is a polyp — a growth of tissue that starts in the lining and grows into the center of the colon. Removing a polyp early may prevent it from becoming cancerous. The polyps can usually be detected by a properly performed colonoscopy. Also, a history of colon cancer in your family is a red flag and should prompt thoughtful review and a periodic colonoscopy, sometimes starting at an earlier age than 50 (the age recommendation for the general population).
