Cases of colon cancer are on the rise in younger individuals, with the disease now being the leading cause of cancer death in men under 50 in the United States and the second deadliest cancer for women in the same age group. According to recent statistics, rates of colon cancer have been steadily increasing among younger people since the 1990s, with the total medical cost of colorectal cancer care in the US reaching $24.3 billion in 2020.
Gastrointestinal oncologist Dr. Michael Shusterman has been at the forefront of recommending lifestyle changes to help lower the risk of developing colon cancer. Some of his key recommendations include quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, increasing physical activity, consuming more fiber, and avoiding ultra-processed foods.
Dr. Shusterman emphasizes the importance of making small, manageable changes to one’s lifestyle in order to prevent colon cancer. He has shared three simple adjustments that he personally follows to reduce his own risk of the disease. Firstly, he suggests eating less red meat by incorporating chicken or fish as alternative sources of protein and saving red meat for special occasions. Secondly, Dr. Shusterman recommends adding more tree nuts to one’s diet, as there is evidence to suggest that they may help lower the risk of colon cancer. Lastly, he advocates for taking daily vitamin D supplements, aiming for a dosage of 1,000 to 2,000 International Units per day.
With the rising prevalence of colon cancer in younger individuals, it is crucial to prioritize preventive measures and adopt healthy lifestyle habits. By following the advice of experts like Dr. Shusterman and making simple changes to one’s daily routine, individuals can take proactive steps towards reducing their risk of developing colon cancer.
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