Reduce your risk of colon cancer

Rio Grande Valley – Colon cancer is not a common topic of conversation, but it is a fairly common type of cancer. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), there will be about 101,420 new cases of colon cancer in 2019. When it is badociated with rectal cancer, which accounts for about 44,180 new cases a year, the Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in men and women, excluding skin cancers. The Valley's Baptist Health System reminds the community to defend your health and get tested.

Colon cancer does not have a single cause. Some people have a higher risk of developing colon cancer because this form of the disease tends to spread in families. Other individuals diagnosed with the disease have a personal history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, or certain hereditary genetic changes that may cause cancer. disease. Being over age 45 and being African American can also increase the risk of developing colon cancer.

"It is important for our community to know that the age of screening has increased to 45 years," said Dr. VijianDhevan, general surgeon at the Harlingen Valley Baptist Medical Center. "By leading a healthy lifestyle and being monitored regularly by your doctor, you are less likely to get colon cancer."

So what can you do to reduce your risk of colon cancer? A lot. Although you can not control your age, race, or family history, you can take a number of lifestyle-related measures to help prevent the disease.

• Consume more fruits and vegetables a day. Avoid diets rich in red meats, such as beef or lamb, and processed meats, especially hot dogs. Choose whole grains rather than refined grains and limit your alcohol intake to one drink per day for women and two per day for men.

• exercise. The ACS recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate or intense physical activity for adults at least five days a week.

• Manage your weight. Although being overweight or obese increases the risk of colon cancer in men and women, this risk tends to be higher in men.

• Do not smoke. Some of the smoking substances that can cause cancer are swallowed and can increase the risk of developing the disease in the digestive system, including the colon.

The fact that you have a risk factor for colon cancer does not mean that you will develop the disease. Individuals with no identifiable risk factors for colon cancer should begin regular colorectal screening at age 45, undergoing colonoscopy, an endoscopic examination used to screen for colon and rectal cancer. People with risk factors for illness should talk to their doctor about the possibility of a younger and / or more frequent screening.

"Screening can save your life," said Sarah Camacho, pharmacy technician for the Brownsville Valley Baptist Medical Center and advocate for colon cancer rights. "Having lost two loved ones to colon cancer, my goal is to educate our community about this important topic. If a person is selected from my plea, it's a success. "

Every March, Camacho is the advocate of his aunt and uncle who have lost their battle against colon cancer. She distributes educational pamphlets and distributes blue ribbons as a constant reminder.

Colon cancer often causes no symptoms, but it can be detected at an early stage by screening when it is most curable. For more information on colon cancer, check with your doctor or visit the ACS website at www.cancer.org.

ABOUT THE BAPTISTE HEALTH SYSTEM OF THE VALLEY

The Valley Baptist Health System is an 866-sectal denominational regional health care system located in the Rio Grande Valley, Texas. It aims to help people find health for their lives through a compbadionate service inspired by faith. Valley Baptist extends many of its services beyond its facilities and into local communities, offering free community screenings, support groups and numerous educational opportunities. For more information, visit www.ValleyBaptist.net.