| |
Symptoms |
| |
Rectal bleeding or blood in stool.
Diarrhea or constipation.
Narrowing of stool.
Abdominal pain.
Weakness, fatigue, jaundice or poor appetite.
|
|
|
Prevention of Colorectal Cancer
There is no known way to directly prevent colorectal cancer, but you can reduce the risks, mainly through lifestyle changes and screening.
- Regular screening for colorectal cancer should begin at age 50 with the fecal occult blood test and the sigmoidoscopy/colonscopy.
- Know your family history for cancer and tell your doctor.
- Eat a diet high in fiber, from whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and low in animal fat, red meat and cholesterol.
- Exercise regularly and keep your weight in the normal range.
- Stop smoking. Smoking increases your risk of colon cancer. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about medicines that can increase your chances of quitting for good.
- Limit alcohol.
More on Colon Cancer Preventing Colon Cancer
Extra Pounds Bring Cancer Risk
SigmoidoscopyTest
Cancer Prevention: The New Evidence
In The Encyclopedia: Bowel resection
Colon cancer
Rectal cancer
Sigmoidoscopy
This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
|
|
|
