Sarah Bush Lincoln Gastroenterologist Jaymon Patel, MD, strives to educate people about all aspects of colon health, especially as colon cancer becomes more common in younger people. In a recent interview, he debunked some common misconceptions about colon cancer and offered suggestions for good colon health.
Why are annual screenings, such as completing a colon kit, so important?
Colon cancer is the second leading cancer-related cause of death in the United States. In recent years, the trend is that colon cancer is developing at younger ages. Due to this trend, the new recommended age for screening is 45, down from age 50.
Why should someone undergo screening if they feel well or have no symptoms?
Pre-cancerous tissue, such as colon polyps, almost never cause symptoms. In fact, 90 to 95 percent of polyps remain without symptoms while silently morphing into cancer. Even more terrifying—according to the United States Preventive Services Task Force—between 60 and 80 percent of people with colon cancer have no symptoms. There is a common misconception that if you feel well and do not have a family history of colon cancer, then you do not need to worry about colon cancer.
People frequently inform me that their bowel movements are regular, they are not constipated, they do not have pain, etc. These statistics illustrate that feeling well does not negate the need for screening. It’s best to remove precancerous tissue before it turns into cancer, or at the very least, detect and treat cancer in the earliest possible stages to minimize its effect on your life.
What things can negatively impact your colon health?
There is substantial evidence that diet impacts your colon health. For example, consumption of highly processed and preserved foods, those with a high sugar content, and a lack of fresh produce and fiber can negatively affect your colon. Additionally, obesity can impact gut health as well as increase the risk for all cancers.
What can people do to maintain a healthy colon and reduce their risk factors?
There are non-modifiable risk factors, such as family history and genetics, that cannot be changed. Modifiable risk factors boil down to life choices and habits. Drinking water instead of processed, sugary beverages is highly recommended. Eating fresh whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, salads and fiber-rich foods is ideal, as well as limiting red meat. In general, living an active lifestyle, maintaining a healthy weight, and eliminating smoking and alcohol are good habits as well.