How can i reduce the risk of colon cancer?

​What is COLON CANCER? The cells of colorectal cancer have high levels of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme which increase reproduction of cancer cells, facilitates the conversion of several procarcinogens into carcinogens, production of oxygen-free radicals, and resistance to cell death. Risk factors for colon cancer include low fiber diet less than 25-30 grams a day, high red meat diet, high protein diet with more than 142 grams a day. Prolonged gastrointestinal transit time more than 30 hours, chronic overeating. Elevated iron load, and trans fatty acids from deep-frying food. To reduce risk factors, eat fresh, unprocessed vegetables, legumes, grains, fruits, seafood. Strictly limit red meat.

Mary is 37 years old. She asks about medications that can reduce her risk of cancer. Her mother died years ago of colon cancer, and she worries that she also will develop the disease. Can anti-inflammatory medications lower her risk of cancer? Mary can discuss with her doctor aspirin or another nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). These agents can potentially reduce the risk of colon cancer. In randomized, controlled clinical trials, aspirin, sulindac, and celecoxib have reduced the development of new or recurrent adenomas in high-risk patients. However, aspirin use was associated with increased risk for stroke and serious bleeding; and celecoxib use was associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Studies suggest that taking aspirin will be more beneficial for patients with a past history of cancers that overexpress COX-2. Mary can be advised to change her lifestyle to reduce her overall risk of cancer. She can follow a healthy program that includes a healthy diet to keep fit, regular exercise to stay active, quit smoking, and limit or avoid alcohol consumption.

​References Koda-Kimble, Mary Anne. Applied Therapeutics: The Clinical Use of Drugs. 9th ed., Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2009.