Eating a few servings of whole grains every day is one of the best moves you can make to prevent colon cancer.

Healthy diets rich in fiber have long been known to reduce the risk. But a comprehensive report that examined prevention studies worldwide presents new evidence about just how important fiber is.

Three daily servings of whole grains, such as brown rice and whole wheat bread, reduced the risk of colorectal cancer by 17 percent, according to the report by the American Institute for Cancer Research and the World Cancer Research Fund International.

The report was based on an analysis of 99 studies containing data on about 29 million adults.

“Colon cancer is among the most treatable and preventable cancers,” said Dr. Faisal Bukeirat, a board-certified gastroenterologist at Mon Health Digestive Care. “This extensive report raises awareness about the importance of a healthy diet, including lots of whole grains. It also makes a strong case that processed meats such as hot dogs and bacon increase the risk of colon cancer.”

The researchers recommended eating little or no processed meats, and limiting red meat such as beef and pork to no more than 17 ounces (about 1 pound) per week.

Dr. Bukeirat also offers these suggestions to reduce your risk of colon cancer:

  • Maintain a healthy weight – being overweight increases risk, especially for men.
  • Eat lots of fruits, vegetables and other fiber-rich foods. Limit foods high in added fat and sugars.
  • Get regular physical activity – at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day.
  • Limit alcohol consumption – consuming 2 or more alcoholic drinks a day was linked to increased risk.
  • Don’t smoke.
  • Follow the American Cancer Society screening guidelines for colorectal cancer, including getting a colonoscopy every 10 years beginning at age 50.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the U.S., causing about 50,000 deaths a year. Nearly half the cases could be prevented through healthy lifestyle changes, the American Institute for Cancer Research estimates.

“While you can’t control certain risks such as family history or personal history of polyps or inflammatory bowel disease, choices we make about diet and exercise have a major impact,” Dr. Bukeirat said. “The link between personal lifestyle choices and colon cancer are among the strongest for any type of cancer.”

The report on colorectal cancer prevention said there was limited evidence that fish, foods containing vitamin C and vitamin D and multivitamin supplements also lowered risk.

Dr. Bukeirat said regular screening for colorectal cancer starting at age 50 is also one of the most important ways to prevent cancer. Screening can detect precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer.

“For some people at high risk, screening before age 50 is recommended,” Dr. Bukeirat said. “It’s important to talk to your doctor about your risk and prevention.”

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

Learn more about Mon Health Digestive Care or schedule an appointment at 304-598-2700.

Emily K. Gallagher
Multimedia Coordinator 
Marketing Department
Mon Health Medical Center
Morgantown, WV