Important Facts to Know During National Colorectal Cancer Month

Home Care Freehold Township, NJ: National Colorectal Cancer Month
Home Care Freehold Township, NJ: National Colorectal Cancer Month

Colorectal cancer is a risk any man or woman faces. With regular screenings and a diet high in fiber and low in red meats, it’s also a cancer that can be avoided. Here are the facts you should know on National Colorectal Cancer Month. 
 
Dietary Fiber Helps Reduce the Risk 
 
Studies prove that a diet high in fiber can help lower the risk of colorectal cancer. One study looked at 57,774 men and women who ate a high-fiber diet over 12 years. At the end of the study, only 733 were diagnosed with colorectal cancer. 
 
Dietary fiber includes grains like barley, farro, oats, and quinoa. Vegetables like rutabaga and avocado re also a good source of dietary fiber. Lentils, chia seeds, and air-popped popcorn are other fiber-rich foods. Men and women need to eat at least 25 to 30 grams of dietary fiber every day. 
 
Stop Eating Processed and Red Meats 
 
Several studies have looked at processed and red meats and their link to colorectal cancer. One of those studies followed 88,751 women for six years. The 150 women who were diagnosed with colon cancer all had one thing in common. They ate processed or red meats each day compared to the others who limited it to once a month. 
 
Processed foods should be avoided. Deli meats, sausages, and hot dogs are some of the items you need to avoid. Red meats must also be avoided when possible. This includes pork, beef, and lamb. If your mom or dad loves red meat, they need to limit it to a treat once a month or so. 
 
Colorectal Cancer Deaths Have Declined 
 
Thanks to screenings and dietary changes, more people are surviving colorectal cancer. The rate dropped by 53 percent for men between 1980 and 2017 and almost 60 percent for women between 1969 and 2017. 
 
The risk of developing colorectal cancer stands at 4.1 percent for women and 4.4 percent for men. With advancements in detection and treatment, it’s very possible to survive this cancer if you go for regular screenings. 
 
How well do your parents manage their appointments? If they forget often, home care can help. Hire caregivers to help them schedule appointments, keep those appointments, and stay on top of follow-up care. Home care aides can also drive them to and from medical and dental offices. Learn more by talking to a representative at a local home care agency. 

If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care in Freehold Township,  NJ, please contact the caring staff at Lares Home Care 888-492-3538 or 732-566-1112. 

Sources: 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4588743/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4698595/

https://www.cancer.org/latest-news/facts-and-figures-2020.html

Roy Kleinert