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Getting Screened
Many colon cancer deaths can be prevented.
Screening tests can find polyps, which are tiny growths that can become cancerous. Removing polyps early may prevent cancer. Screening tests also can find colon cancer early on, when there may not be any symptoms and when treatment can be most effective.
Talk with your doctor about the screening options that are right for you. There are several screening tests from which you and your doctor can choose from.
Check with your health insurance provider to determine your colon cancer screening benefits. If you are 50 or older and are covered by Medicare, you may be eligible to receive colon cancer screening benefits.
Steps You Can Take to Prevent Colon Cancer
If you are age 50 or older and have never been screened, start now. Screening is the best way to find polyps before they become cancerous or to find an early cancer when treatment can be most effective.
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Other ways to help reduce your risk include:
- Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and whole grains from breads, cereals, nuts and beans.
- Eat a low-fat diet.
- Eat foods with folate such as kale, Swiss chard and other dark leafy green vegetables. Taking a daily multivitamin that contains 0.4 mg of folic acid may also be helpful in preventing colon cancer.
- Stop using tobacco products. If you don’t use tobacco products, don’t start.
- Exercise for at least 20 minutes three to four times each week. Moderate exercise such as walking, gardening, or climbing steps may help reduce your risk.
- If you choose to drink alcohol, consume alcoholic beverages in moderation.