Dietary fiber from whole grains lowers colorectal cancer risk.

A meta-analysis of 25 studies that involved almost 2 million people revealed that fiber from whole grains reduced the risk of colorectal cancer by 21% compared with fiber from fruits, vegetables, or legumes. Higher intakes showed greater risk reduction. Dietary fiber shortens stool transit times, increases stool bulk, and probably dilutes gut carcinogens, thereby lowering risk.

PositiveTip: Lower your risk of colorectal cancer by eating whole grains every day.

Even small amounts of alcohol raise the risk of cancer.

A ten year study of eight European countries on alcohol consumption and cancer has lead researchers to conclude that "there is no sensible limit below which the risk of cancer is decreased. ... Thus, alcohol consumption should not be recommended to prevent cardiovascular disease or all-cause mortality." 

Representatives from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute in Bethesda, Maryland, wrote: "From a standpoint of cancer risk, the message of this report could not be clearer. There is no level of alcohol that can be considered safe".

PositiveTip: Skip the alcohol and choose healthy non-alcoholic, low-calorie drinks.

Colorectal cancer risk lowered by 5 simple lifestyle habits.

Danish researchers followed 55,000 middle-age, cancer-free Danes for an average of 10 years. Their analysis revealed that almost 25% of colorectal cancers could be prevented by following five simple lifestyle habits (not smoking; daily physical activity for at least 30 minutes; avoiding heavy drinking; eating a healthy diet; and waist-circumference control — i.e., less than 40 inches for men and less than 35 inches for women).

Colon cancer risk isn't really affected by family history unless the relative is first-degree.

Many diseases seem to run in families. Cancer of the colon (CRC) is no exception. Researchers have used the Utah Population Database to evaluate the risk posed to an individual by first, second, and third degree relatives with primary colon cancer. Risks were higher among first-degree relatives. However, second and third-degree relatives have CRC risk if there are no affected first-degree relatives.

PositiveTip: Following a healthy lifestyle of wholesome diet and regular physical activity may delay or prevent the onset of CRC--in spite of family history risks.

Putting off having a colonoscopy? "Nicer" alternatives are being developed.

While certainly not our favorite screening procedure, colonoscopy remains the best method of detecting colorectal cancer early. A surprising number of people simply refuse this important screening test. Technology may be coming to their rescue (and ours also). Capsule endoscopy involves swallowing a large capsule with a camera at each end and the electronics to image the entire colon. Patients must prepare carefully before swallowing, then swallow the capsule which goes into "sleep mode" for the transit time to the colon, "wakes up" and for 10 hours images your colon! Is it a viable option yet?