How to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer?

People who smoke, exercise less and have an unhealthy diet are at higher risk of developing colorectal cancer, a study says.

The results suggest that a healthy lifestyle may help reduce the risk of the disease. The results, based on a colorectal cancer risk assessment survey with more than 27,000 respondents worldwide, showed that modifiable risk factors such as diet and lifestyle behaviors were reported by patients with no history of colorectal cancer or polyps.

The researchers also found that less than 10% of respondents said they ate five or more servings of fruits, vegetables, and grains a day, and only about 25% exercised for at least 30 minutes, four times a week.

“Colon cancer is preventable,” said Carol Burke, a gastroenterologist at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. “These findings highlight factors that can modify your risk of developing the disease.”

Burke and colleagues conducted an online survey to solicit information about colorectal cancer risk based on self-report and family history of colorectal cancer and polyps.

The survey made recommendations to each participant to modify their risk factors through screening as well as lifestyle and dietary changes.

The 5-minute web-based questionnaire asked participants about age, sex, race, height, weight, dietary factors, smoking history, physical activity, personal and family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, and screening adherence.

Results showed that respondents who exercised more, ate a healthy diet and did not smoke had a lower risk of developing colorectal cancer or colon polyps.

According to SK&DS