Who Is Most at Risk for Colon Cancer?
Statistics from Singapore Cancer Registry for the period 2011-2015 found that colon cancer is the most common cancer among Singaporean men, second highest after breast cancer among women (1).
In fact, on August 29, we were shocked by the death of the popular Black Panther actor, Chadwick Boseman, who was confirmed dead due to colon cancer. So, if you are wondering who is the most at risk for colon cancer, let's find out more information in this article.
1. Eating Processed Meat Too Much
Examples of processed meats are sausages, burgers, salami, and others. A study conducted by 22 experts from 10 countries found that consuming 50grams of processed meat daily increased colon cancer risk by 17% (2).
In 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) confirmed that processed meat is a carcinogen (cause of cancer). So, if you are a person who regularly eats foods such as 'fast-food', you may need to reduce taking them starting today.
2. Eat Red Meat Frequently
The difference between red meat with processed meats is that red meats such as beef, lamb, and pork are visibly seen in their red blood color before cooking. It is not the same as processed meat that has undergone processing such as salt addition, preservation, fermentation, and fumigation.
It is best to eat white meat, such as chicken and fish, that does not increase cancer risk.
3. Family History with Colon Cancer
If your family has a history of colon cancer, you also risk recurring it, especially if the sufferer is in a different family generation.
Those who have had this type of cancer also have a higher risk of developing it a second time. So, make sure you check your family history; if all those who have colon cancer came from the same family side, then you may need to be more careful (1).
4. Not Enough Vegetables and Fruits
A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains has been shown to reduce colon cancer (3). According to Public Health Malaysia Facebook, 95% of Malaysians do not eat enough vegetables and fruits.
The World Health Organization (WHO) also recommends consuming at least 400g of vegetables and fruits a day. In return, it prevents various other diseases, including colon cancer.
5. Smokers
Smokers are not only at risk for colon cancer but also lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, male and female fertility, and many, and I mean many many more.
If you are a smoker, try to quit and if it is not for yourself, do it for your loved ones like your family and children.
References:
- https://www.parkwaycancercentre.com/sg/news-events/news-articles/news-articles-details/a-closer-look-at-colorectal-cancer
- https://thediagnosa.com/daging-terproses-punca-kanser/
- https://www.cancer.org/latest-news/six-ways-to-lower-your-risk-for-colon-cancer.html#:~:text=Diets%20that%20include%20lots%20of,increased%20risk%20of%20colorectal%20cancer.
