How to Reduce Your Risk of Colon Cancer: Everyday Steps to Protect Your Health

Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, and that’s an empowering message. By understanding your risk factors and making a few key lifestyle and screening decisions, you can greatly improve your chances of staying healthy. At Premier Surgical Cleveland, our General Surgeons Dr. Eston Wenger, Dr. Jason Dunn, Dr. Joshua Worthington, and Dr. John Boxberger are committed to helping you lower your risk and catch problems early, when they’re most treatable..

Know Your Risk for Colon Cancer

Colon cancer (also called colorectal cancer) often begins as small, noncancerous growths called polyps in the lining of the colon or rectum. Over time, some polyps can become cancerous. Age, family history, certain genetic conditions, inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, smoking, and a diet low in fiber and high in processed foods can all increase your risk.

Even if you feel well, colon cancer can develop silently for years, making prevention and screening especially important.

Get Routine Colon Cancer Screenings

One of the most powerful ways to reduce your risk of colon cancer is to follow recommended screening guidelines. Screening can find precancerous polyps so they can be removed before they turn into cancer.

Talk with your provider about when to start screening, especially if you:

• Are age 45 or older
• Have a family history of colon or rectal cancer
• Have a history of polyps or inflammatory bowel disease
• Have changes in bowel habits, blood in your stool, or unexplained weight loss

Our team at Premier Surgical Cleveland regularly works with patients and their primary care providers to evaluate symptoms, perform diagnostic procedures, and provide surgical treatment when needed.

Eat a Colon-Healthy Diet

What you eat can play a big role in colon health. Aim to:

• Increase fiber: Enjoy fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains.
• Limit red and processed meats: Cut back on bacon, sausage, hot dogs, and large portions of red meat.
• Choose healthy fats: Focus on olive oil, nuts, seeds, and fish instead of fried or heavily processed foods.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water supports healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.

Small, consistent changes in your daily meals can have long-term benefits.

Stay Active and Maintain a Healthy Weight

Regular physical activity and a healthy weight are linked to a lower risk of colon cancer. Try to:

• Move your body most days of the week
• Incorporate both aerobic exercise (like walking or biking) and strength training
• Sit less by breaking up long periods of sitting with short walking breaks

You don’t have to run a marathon. Simple, steady activity adds up over time.

Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol

Smoking and heavy alcohol use are associated with a higher risk of colon and other cancers. If you smoke, talk to your provider about quitting resources. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.

Pay Attention to Symptoms

Contact your provider if you notice:

• Blood in your stool
• A change in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks
• Persistent abdominal pain or cramping
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue

These symptoms don’t always mean cancer, but they should be evaluated.

We’re Here to Help

At Premier Surgical Cleveland, our surgical team provides compassionate, expert care for colon conditions, from diagnosis and minimally invasive surgery to ongoing follow-up. If you have concerns about your colon health or are due for screening, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Call (423) 472-5423 or request an appointment online here.