In recent years, advances in gastroenterology in Houston, TX and elsewhere have made it plain that while there is a genetic factor that predisposes certain individuals to colon cancer; it isn’t completely determined by inheritance and genes. There are things that we can do and steps we can take as preventative measures that can mitigate against the likelihood of colorectal cancer. Some environmental factors that increase risk include the following:
A poor diet. The solution is to watch what you eat. Research indicates that the high consumption of red or processed meat for years on end can significantly increase the risk of colon cancer. Gastroenterology experts in Houston, TX generally agree with a study first published in the American Medical Association Journal (AMA) that unhealthy eating is a factor that increases the risk for cancer of all types, including that which has a direct effect upon the colon in males. There are studies that strongly indicate that up to 35% of all cancers have poor diet as a factor that not only increases risk, but may have some causal attributes, as well. Nitrates in red meat, for instance, may play a role in some instances of colorectal cancer.
Not enough exercise. Here we go, one may think. That twin couple who supposedly solve every problem: diet and exercise. Yet, both are essential for optimal health, and exercise does help to reduce the risk for cancer. Exercise may just mean inculcating a more active lifestyle, but it usually includes taking a little extra time to pay attention to your body. That can take many different kinds of forms, however. If you like working out in a gym or doing aerobics, then go for it; but if you prefer square dancing, jogging or playing sports, these may be viable alternatives. Don’t make your exercise routine a dreadful bummer, but choose an activity that you enjoy and that is conducive to your own individual tastes and preferences.
Eating well and exercising regularly are recommended by physicians who specialize in gastroenterology in Houston, TX as ways of influencing your environment in order to reduce the risk of getting colon cancer, even if you have a family history of the disease. Seeing a gastroenterology doctor in Houston, TX once a year for a colonoscopy, especially if you are 50 or older, is also a way of early detection, which provides more options for prognosis.
Gastroenterology Houston TX – Dr. Barry D. Winston specializes in gastroenterology in Houston, TX at North Houston Gastroenterology Clinic (NHGC) and Houston Colon Cancer Screening Center (HCCSC), offering the most advanced diagnostic and treatment methods for colorectal cancer screening, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, acid reflux disease, Crohn’s Disease, and more. To contact North Houston Gastroenterology Clinic, call281.440.3618 or visit for more information.
