How to prevent colorectal cancer

This is an automatically translated article.

The article was written by Specialist Doctor I Nguyen Thi Minh Thuyen - Pathologist, Pathology Department - Vinmec Danang International General Hospital.
There is no way to completely prevent cancer. But you can change some of your controllable risk factors and take steps to help reduce your risk.

1. Screening for colorectal cancer

From the moment abnormal cells first begin to develop into polyps, it usually takes about 10 to 15 years for them to progress to colorectal cancer. With regular screening, most polyps can be found and removed before they have a chance to become cancerous.
Screening can also help find colorectal cancer early, when the lesions are small, and make it easier to treat. If you're 45 or older, you should start getting screened for colorectal cancer.

2. Weight control, physical activity and diet

The risk of colorectal cancer can be reduced by controlling certain risk factors, such as diet and physical activity.

2.1 Weight


Being overweight or obese increases the risk of colorectal cancer in both men and women, but men have a higher risk. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding mid-body weight gain can help reduce the risk of the disease.

Việc duy trì cân nặng bình thường sẽ giúp ngăn ngừa tình trạng ung thư đại trực tràng
Việc duy trì cân nặng bình thường sẽ giúp ngăn ngừa tình trạng ung thư đại trực tràng

2.2 Physical activity


Increasing the intensity and volume of physical activity can help reduce the risk of disease.

2.3 Diet


Many studies have found a link between red meat (beef, pork, and lamb) or processed meat (like hot dogs and canned meat) with an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
In recent years, several studies have suggested that adding high-fiber foods to the diet, especially from whole grains, may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. In addition, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption can help reduce the risk of disease.

Chế độ ăn giàu chất xơ làm giảm nguy cơ ung thư đại trực tràng
Chế độ ăn giàu chất xơ làm giảm nguy cơ ung thư đại trực tràng

3. Preventive genetic testing for people with a family history of colorectal cancer


If you have a family history of polyps or colorectal cancer, you yourself have a higher risk of colorectal cancer. Please give this information to your doctor. You may need genetic counseling support.
Genetic tests can help determine if certain family members have hereditary cancers, such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).

3.1 Lynch syndrome test


Lynch syndrome significantly increases the risk of colorectal cancer. People with Lynch syndrome are also at increased risk for certain other cancers, such as cancer of the uterus (endometrium), ovarian, stomach, small intestine, pancreas, kidney, brain, ureter, and ureter. bile duct.
Who should be tested for Lynch syndrome: The Lynch syndrome test is based on 2 criteria.

Xét nghiệm hội chứng Lynch được thực hiện khi 3 người thân bị ung thư liên quan đến hội chứng Lynch.
Xét nghiệm hội chứng Lynch được thực hiện khi 3 người thân bị ung thư liên quan đến hội chứng Lynch.

3.1.1 Amsterdam Standards

Doctors find that many families with Lynch syndrome tend to have certain features, known as the Amsterdam criterion:
At least 3 relatives with cancer related to Lynch syndrome. One is a first-degree relative (parent, sibling or child) of the other 2 relatives. At least the next 2 generations are affected. At least 1 close relative with cancer under the age of 50.

3.1.2 Revised Bethesda Guidelines


People diagnosed with colorectal cancer younger than 50 years old. People with colorectal cancer or another cancer (endometrium, stomach, pancreas, small intestine, ovary, kidney, brain, ureter, or bile duct) associated with Lynch syndrome. People younger than 60 years old and with cancer who have certain features of Lynch syndrome (diagnosed by microsatellite instability testing). This person has a first-degree relative (parent, sibling or child) under age 50 who has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer or another cancer associated with Lynch syndrome. People with 2 or more first- or second-degree relatives (aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, or grandparents) with colorectal cancer or Lynch syndrome-related cancer at any age.

Người có người thân cấp một dưới 50 tuổi được chẩn đoán mắc ung thư đại trực tràng được chỉ định xét nghiệm hội chứng Lynch
Người có người thân cấp một dưới 50 tuổi được chẩn đoán mắc ung thư đại trực tràng được chỉ định xét nghiệm hội chứng Lynch

3.2 Test for familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) often causes polyps in the colon and rectum, which over time can lead to colorectal cancer. Genetic counseling and testing is valuable for those who may have FAP based on personal or family history. If changes in the gene that cause FAP are found, close relatives (siblings and children) should be tested. If testing is positive for FAP-associated gene mutations, screening with colonoscopy should be initiated in adolescence. The best way to prevent and protect the health of you and your family is to get screened for cancer as soon as possible. Should be repeated every 6 months, 1 year, 2 years... Periodic and correct cancer screening will help detect precancerous lesions early, thereby providing a chance for a cure.
Vinmec International General Hospital is one of the most prestigious and modern hospitals in Vietnam. Here, rectal cancer screening packages are provided to help customers be proactive and prevent the disease.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.

The article references the source: American Cancer Society
MORE:
Is colorectal cancer curable? How to detect colorectal cancer early? Colon Cancer: What you need to know
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