Colorectal cancer is the second most important cause cancer-related deaths among men and women when rates are combined. While it is the most common among elderly peopleit can affect individuals of all ages, races and genders.

According to the American Cancer Society, rates of colon or rectal cancer have been increasing among people under 55 since the mid-1990s, increasing slightly by 1-2% each year.

Colorectal cancer screening may seem invasive to some people, but technology is starting to catch up. Earlier this year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a blood test for colorectal cancerthus providing people with a new, less invasive cancer screening option.

Although it is still administered in a doctor’s office, Guardant Health, maker of the Shield blood test, announcement that it is covered by Medicare, which will expand access to early cancer detection and treatment to even more people. According to Guardant, it is approved for people ages 45 and older.

Knowing the signs and being proactive in seeking care is crucial to recovery from colon cancer. Below we discuss the signs of colon cancer, its risk factors, and things you can incorporate into your daily life to reduce your risk of CRC.

About colon cancer

The colon is part of the large intestine; Colon cancer forms here when there is an abnormal growth of polyps which turn into cancer cells over time. According to the Mayo Clinic, polyps are small and may cause few or no symptoms. Regular screening is recommended, especially if you have risk factors or signs of colon cancer.

According to a Yale University reportColon cancer tends to develop differently in men and women. Colon cancer rates are lower among women, but they are also more likely to develop right-sided colon cancer, a more aggressive type of colon cancer.

7 signs of colon cancer

• Changes in your stools or stool consistency
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Bleeding from the rectum
• Blood in the stool
• Sudden weight loss
• Regular stomach pain, discomfort or cramps
• The intestines do not seem empty

Risk factors

Increased risk factors for colon cancer include:

• You are 50 years or older
• Family history of colon cancer
• Chronic inflammatory conditions like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
• Poor diet, high in fat and low in fiber
• Alcohol
• Smoking
• An inactive lifestyle
• Obesity

Ways to Reduce Colon Cancer Risk

1. Cancer screening: The average person should start screening for colon cancer around age 45, but consider screening earlier if you have increased risk factors.
2. Nutrition: Incorporate different fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your diet to harvest their nutrients. Foods like berries, grapes, broccoli and brown rice contain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can benefits for cancer prevention.
3. Smoke and drink in moderation: You don’t have to stop the turkey in one gobut these habits should be practiced in moderation to reduce your risk of colon cancer.
4. Exercise: Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy body and weight, which reduces the risk of colon cancer. Aim for 150 minutes of activity per week or 20 to 30 minutes per day.

For tips on healthy living, here are tips on how to improve your gut health, six low-impact exercises you can do anywhere And “exercise snacks” you can easily make for heart health.