Experts have listed six steps that prevent colon cancer

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Colon Cancer is a serious diagnosis, but there are a number of steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing tumors, an expert says.

“When people are healthy, they don't think about disease prevention. But prevention should come first,” says Dr. Wei Chiu, director of the Gastrointestinal Oncology and Molecular Precision Programs at Cedars-Sinai Clinic and Research Institute in Los Angeles.

Dr. Chiu outlined six steps that will help prevent colon cancer or detect it at an early stage.

• Get screened. If detected early, this type of cancer is highly treatable. Adults at average risk of colorectal cancer should be screened starting at age 45. If there was a family history of the disease, screening should begin at the age of 40 or 10 years before the diagnosis of the youngest first-degree relative.
• Diet. Studies show that diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are associated with a lower risk of colon or rectal cancer. Try to reduce the consumption of beef, pork and lamb, processed meat.
• Be active. According to Chiu, exercise may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer because it reduces inflammation in the body and strengthens the immune system.
• Watch your weight. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of colorectal cancer.
• Reduce alcohol consumption. Alcohol can cause intestinal damage; it's a toxin whose byproduct damages DNA.
• Don't smoke. According to Chiu, the study showed that smokers have a 59% higher risk of developing this cancer, and ex-smokers have a 19% higher risk. People who quit smoking more than 20 years ago did not have an increased risk.