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7 Tactics to Save Your Life
Publication Date:2/1/2009 11:16:00 AM
Six Lifelong Habits Keep You and Your Family Together
Daniel Howell, M.D., who practices in the Colon & Rectal Clinic´s Northwest and Katy offices, recommends six tactics to help lower your risk for
colon cancer:
1. Maintain a healthy weight.
2. Limit your intake of red meat, particularly fatty or processed varieties.
3. Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and other plant foods, such as whole-grain breads and cereals.
4. Take a multivitamin that contains folic acid. Long-term use may decrease colon cancer risk by 75%. Foods rich in folate, such as oranges and leafy green vegetables, also offer protection.
5. Exercise regularly.
6. Get adequate calcium from foods or a supplement.
The Seventh and Most Critical Tactic
Colon cancer may cause symptoms, including blood in or on the stool, recurrent stomach pain or cramping, narrow, ribbon-like stools, and unexplained weight loss.
"Unfortunately, colon cancer often produces no symptoms," says
Omar Madriz, M.D., who practices in the Colon & Rectal Clinic´s Memorial City and Katy locations. "That´s why experts recommend regular screenings for people at age 50 and older. Those with a personal or family history of colon cancer or polyps and anyone with inflammatory bowel disease should be screened earlier."
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