Prevention
Making healthy choices can go a long way in helping you to live a healthier life. Here are a few suggestions:
- Get screened. Early detection is part of prevention. Talk to your doctor about what screening tests you should get as part of your regular care. The American Cancer Society "Guidelines for the Early Detection of Cancer" recommend, beginning at age 50, both men and women follow one of these testing schedules for screening to find colon polyps and cancer: 1. Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years, or 2. Colonoscopy every 10 years, or 3. Double-contrast barium enema every 5 years, or 4. CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) every 5 years.
- Don't smoke or use tobacco which is the most important thing you can do for your health.
- if you drink alcohol, drink less no more than one drink per day for women or two drinks per day for men.Drink a lot of water instate to help in food movement and waste through your body.
- Know your family history for cancer. Talk to your doctor if you think you are at risk.
- Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. The American Cancer Society recommends eating at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables every day.
- Know your risk factors.