ulcerative colitis and Crohn ’ s disease , is a condition in which the colon is inflamed over a long period of time . People who have IBD for many years develop dysplasia – a term used to describe cells that line the colon and rectum that look abnormal . These cells can change into cancer over time .
• African-Americans are more likely to get colorectal cancer and have the highest mortality rates of all racial groups in the United States . The reasons for this are not yet understood . Lifestyle-Related Risk Factors
• Food - Diets high in red meats ( such as beef , lamb or liver ), processed meats ( hot dogs and luncheon meats ) and saturated fats elevate your risk . Additionally , cooking meats at high temperatures ( frying , broiling or grilling ) creates chemicals that may increase your risk of developing colon cancer . Diets high in fruits , vegetables and whole grains have been linked with a decreased risk of colon cancer .
• Physical Activity - If you are not physically active , you have a greater chance of developing colon cancer . Increasing activity may help reduce your risk .
• Obesity - If you are overweight , your risk of developing and dying from colon cancer is increased . A healthy weight decreases your risk of cancer .
• Smoking and Heavy Alcohol Use - Smoking is a well-known cause of lung cancer , but it is also linked to other cancers like colorectal . Colorectal cancer has also been linked to the heavy use of alcohol .
Alcohol use should be limited to no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women .
When should I have a colonoscopy ?
• At age 50 -- if you have no family history of polyps or colon cancer ,
• At age 45 -- if you ’ re African American and have no family history
• 10 years younger than the age a first-degree relative ( parent , sibling or child ) had polyps or colon cancer .
For more information , contact your health care provider or North Oaks Business Development at ( 985 ) 230-6647 .
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