Five Minutes or Less for Health Weekly Tip: Prevent Colon Cancer

Colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum) affects both men and women, and is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Colorectal cancer can be prevented by getting screened for the disease beginning at age 50. Screening tests help prevent colorectal cancer by finding and removing precancerous polyps (abnormal growths). Screening also finds this cancer early, when treatment can be most effective.

Take these steps to help lower your risk for colon cancer.

• Talk to your doctor or nurse about colon cancer screening, especially if you are age 50 or older, you or a close relative has had colon cancer or polyps, or if you have inflammatory bowel disease.
• Call 1-800-4-CANCER or 1-800-ACS-2345 to learn more about screening options in your community.
• Be physically active and maintain a healthy weight.
• Choose more fruits and vegetables for meals and snacks.
• Limit alcohol.
• Quit Smoking. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW to help you quit.

Learn More

• Colorectal Cancer Awareness
• Colorectal (Colon) Cancer