Give yourself a birthday gift
Published: Wednesday, March 6, 2019
By BEVERLY CLARK
Times-News Columnist
Several years ago, I lost two friends within six months of one another. I still think of them both from time to time, but thoughts of them are always with me when it’s time for my colonoscopy.
This may sound strange until I tell you that both of my friends lost their lives to colon cancer. I don’t know whether either death could have been prevented but having a screening test is my own small way of trying to lower my own risk.
I’ll be the first to admit that thoughts of screening for colon cancer don’t excite me. It isn’t really the test itself that I’d like to avoid, but rather the preparation for it. But the good news is that other than the prep, the only memory I have of either of my tests is the caring office staff and a nice nap at home afterward. It’s true that I did miss a day of work for each screening, but one day every 10 years seems a small price to pay for knowing that I’m cancer free.
The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is to get screened regularly starting at age 50. There are often no signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer - that’s why it’s so important to get screened. Several different screening tests for colon cancer are available now— some that are easier and less invasive than others. Your doctor is the best judge of what may be appropriate for you.
Colorectal cancer often starts from precancerous polyps in the colon or rectum. A polyp is a small growth that sometimes resembles a very small mushroom. Left in place, some polyps can turn into cancer. Screening tests help find polyps and other indicators of cancer, so they can be removed before they become serious, when treatment works best.
According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States and the second leading cause of death from cancers.
It affects both men and women among all racial and ethnic groups and is most common in people ages 50 and older.
Recent studies have shown that a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains and low in red and processed meats seems to lower the risk of colorectal cancer. Eating a moderate amount of fish and seafood also seems to lower cancer risk. Research is ongoing to learn more, but it’s believed that foods that are higher in fiber travel through our system faster, therefore preventing cancer.
In addition to eating a healthy diet, there are a few other things you can do to help prevent colorectal cancer including:
Get screened starting at age 50.
• Encourage your family members and friends over age 50 to get screened.
• Quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke.
• Get plenty of physical activity.
Don’t let the phrase 'physical activity' scare you. It isn’t necessary to join a gym to reap the benefits of being active. Be creative to discover what suits you best. Try to take a walk as often as you can.
If weather is bad, walk the mall or make a few laps inside your favorite big-box store. Park farther from your destination.
Take the stairs instead of an elevator. Vacuum, rake, mop. Cut up some vegetables to keep in the fridge for a quick snack. (Yes, chopping veggies counts as a little physical activity!) For more fun ideas check out GoHendo.org.
Most importantly, give yourself and your family a 50th birthday gift. Talk to your doctor and get screened for colorectal cancer. Don’t put it off.
You can learn more about colorectal cancer at hendersoncountync.gov/ health.
Beverly Clark is the health promotion coordinator for Henderson County Department of Public Health.
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