Did you know that colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer among Americans? Representing both colon and rectal cancers, it accounts for nearly 150,000 cancer diagnoses each year.

Since March is recognized as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, our team at AFC Urgent Care Smyrna wants to arm you with some tips on how to protect your colorectal health and prevent cancer.

Am I at Risk for Developing Colorectal Cancer?

Yes, you are at risk. Every person is at risk of developing this incredibly common type of cancer that affects men and women equally.

But with that said, there are certain groups of the population that are at a higher risk than others. Many risk factors cannot be changed, but some of them can be altered with healthy lifestyle habits.

Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors

• Low-fiber, high-fat diet
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Excess weight
• Advanced age
• African American race
• Personal history of colorectal polyps
• Family history of colorectal cancer
• Certain inherited disorders

What Steps Can I Take to Prevent Colorectal Cancer?

The good news is that while colorectal cancer is incredibly common, it is also incredibly preventable. That’s because during a colonoscopy—the gold standard for colorectal cancer screenings—a doctor can spot and remove precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer.

You can also protect your colorectal health by practicing healthy lifestyle habits, paying particular attention to your diet.

Colorectal Cancer Prevention

• Eat a high-fiber, low-fat diet.
• Limit your consumption of red and processed meats.
• Choose a variety of fruits and veggies.
• Don’t smoke.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Get plenty of quality sleep.
• Find effective ways to manage stress.

The first step to improving your health is knowing where your health currently stands. Visit AFC Urgent Care Smyrna today for a checkup—no appointment is necessary!