Colon cancer is the third leading cause of death and third most commonly occurring form of cancer behind prostate and lung cancer in men and breast and lung cancer in women [Source: NCCD, CDC]. Recent statistics show more than 140,000 Americans were diagnosed with colon cancer in 2005 [Source: NCCD]. Unlike many other cancers, there are significant means available to detect colon cancer early to ensure successful treatment. There are also several nutrients that can help prevent this disease.
Colon cancer screening is a vital part of a prevention program. Colon cancer screening is done through a test called a colonoscopy, where a physician views the entire colon. The physician is looking for any abnormalities in the colon, particularly any unusual growths. Often times if these growths are found, they can be removed. Not all growths will be cancerous at the time of removal, but some could have the possibility of changing to a more cancerous state if allowed to grow in the body. This outpatient procedure could remove a growth (often called a polyp) well before it becomes a major cancer. Screening with colonoscopy is typically started at age 50. If there is a strong family history of colon cancer, screening will start at age 50 or 10 years prior to the age the family member was diagnosed. Screening before symptoms start will allow for a much earlier diagnosis of potential cancers, along with quicker, easier, more successful treatment.
Along with appropriate screening, colon cancer will be affected by lifestyle habits. The typical American diet (high in red meat and low in fiber) has been thought to be a contributor to colon cancer [Source: Giovannucci]. Not all studies take issue with red meat, but processed meats are very suspect as a risk factor for colon cancer [Source: Kimura, Meyerhardt]. Grass-fed cattle contain higher levels of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which may help protect against cancer. Certain fats may be better than others. For example, higher fish intake helped decrease the risk of colon cancer [Source: Kimura]. Olive oil and coconut oil did not increase risk, but corn oil and safflower (two oils that may be overly processed and damaged by high heat) did increase risk [Source: Reddy]. Another protective factor is adequate fiber in the diet [Source: Meyerhardt]. Lack of fiber and an abundance of processed foods is the hallmark of the American diet. High fiber intake is protective, especially when the fiber comes in the form of vegetables [Source: Ghadirian]. To help prevent various types of cancer and heart disease, the goal should be at least 5-6 servings of fruits and vegetables a day. The fruit, and at least some of the vegetable, servings should be raw. Vegetables provide protection in nearly every type of cancer, and that effect seems to be even more pronounced for colon cancer.
Specific nutrients may provide additional prevention. Vitamin B-6, folate, calcium and vitamin D offer significant protection against colon cancer [Lipkin, et al]. The decision to supplement with certain vitamins may depend on how great the risk factors and family history of colon cancer are. Vitamin D holds great promise in the prevention of many cancers, making adequate intake through sun exposure and supplementation highly recommended. Calcium is important for bone density, especially for ladies, so it might be considered for those at risk for colon cancer and osteoporosis. Both B-6 and folic acid are useful for many different areas of the body, are well-tolerated, cost-effective and easy to supplement. A B complex vitamin could supplement B-6 (around 25-50 mg daily) and folic acid (400 mcg daily) simply in one dose.
Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers, but we could cut that number dramatically by regular screening and adopting a better intake of fruits and vegetables. Produce provides the much needed fiber and folate we need to prevent cancer. Calcium and B-6 can provide extra insurance to help those at a higher risk.
