Is It Possible to Prevent Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer is a disease characterized by the appearance of atypical or abnormal cells in the large intestine and rectum, which multiply uncontrollably. This condition is also called colorectal cancer.

The clearest sign of this type of cancer in the colon or rectum is the presence of polyps, which a doctor can detect during a specialized exam like a colonoscopy. A polyp is a mass of cells that forms and grows on the tissue covering the mucous membranes of the large intestine.

Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in humans and the most frequent cancer of the digestive system. Its incidence varies widely among countries. In New Zealand, an estimated thousands of new cases are diagnosed annually. It’s important to note that in over 70% of cases, the tumor appears after age 50, making age a primary risk factor. With early diagnosis, the current survival rate is around 85%.

The causes of colon cancer include colon polyps, which over time can undergo structural changes and become malignant tumors. Another significant factor is an improper diet. It is known that excessive and continuous consumption of animal fats (red meats) increases the risk of developing colon cancer by 12-17%. Similarly, a high intake of fiber seems to be significant, and countries with a high-fiber diet have a lower incidence of colon cancer. The role of calcium and folic acid in preventing the risk of this disease has also been proven.

At present, early diagnosis is the most positive factor for achieving a good outcome in the treatment of colorectal cancer. For those of you who live in New Zealand, there are many gastroenterology clinics, such as Tauranga Gastroenterology, that can provide early diagnostic services for possible “abnormalities in the bowel.”

In fact, between 20-25% of all colon tumors have a familial or genetic origin, and first and second-degree relatives of these patients are susceptible to developing this condition, generally at an earlier age. This underscores the importance of undergoing diagnostic tests.

Prevention is Always Better than Treatment

Colon cancer can be avoided or prevented by adopting a series of daily habits. These habits help prevent the appearance of polyps in the large intestine:

Consume natural, healthy foods 

A healthy diet is based on consuming natural products. A good amount of fruits and vegetables not only provides the fiber that the digestive system needs to function properly, but it also regulates intestinal flora and keeps the immune system and intestinal mucous membranes healthy. It’s very important to avoid ultra-processed foods—those that contain preservatives—and to cut back on tobacco, saturated fats, and alcohol, since this lifestyle has been shown to influence the development of colorectal cancer.

Limit the intake of fats, sugar, and salt

While these foods make you feel full, they are responsible for increasing the risk of other diseases like being overweight or having diabetes, which can later trigger the development of colon cancer.

Vitamin C plays an important role

Vitamin C is known to support the immune system by fighting off infections, and its antioxidant properties can protect the body’s cells and tissues, including those that make up the digestive system. Many fruits contain vitamin C, and consuming them regularly each day can reduce the risk of colon cancer.

Maintain Physical Activity

Maintaining a routine of physical activity, preferably in the mornings, keeps the body active and prevents the development of factors like a sedentary lifestyle, being overweight, or diabetes, all of which can influence the appearance of colon cancer. At least 20 minutes of exercise three times a week is a good practice that plays an important factor in weight control and the prevention of diseases associated with a sedentary lifestyle. Exercise speeds up the digestive process, reduces the risk of constipation or inflammation of the digestive system, which in turn prevents the development of polyps in the large intestine.

So, it seems that colon cancer can be prevented to a certain extent, but of course, prevention cannot guarantee 100 percent success.