Colon and Rectal Cancers - Prevention

Prevention

Exercise

Studies indicate that daily exercise is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. The more vigorous the activity, the greater the benefit, but even moderate exercise (walking, stair-climbing) can help reduce colorectal cancer risk. The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that people engage in at least moderate exercise for 30 minutes or more at least 5 days a week. The ACS also notes that 45 minutes or more of moderate to vigorous activity at least 5 days a week may help further reduce cancer risk.

Some studies also suggest that regular exercise may be beneficial for patients who have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Two 2006 studies indicated that exercise may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer recurrence and death for patients with stage I - III cancer.

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Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are very common pain relievers that are available over-the-counter and by prescription. They include aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol), naproxen (Aleve), and the COX-2 inhibitor celecoxib (Celebrex). Several studies have reported that NSAIDs can help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. However, regular use of NSAIDs, even in low doses, can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and stomach ulcers. Several 2006 studies in the New England Journal of Medicine reported that celecoxib prevented precancerous polyps, but the drug more than doubled patients’ risk for heart attack and other cardiovascular events.

A 2005 Nurse’s Health Study found that aspirin, but not other NSAIDs, does provide protection against colorectal cancer. However, the risk was only reduced for women who took 2 aspirin a day for more than 10 years. In addition, this dose level greatly increases the risk for gastrointestinal bleeding. At this time, the American Cancer Society does not recommend that people take NSAIDs, or other types of medication, for colorectal cancer prevention.

In March 2007, the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommended against the routine use of aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to prevent colorectal cancer in people over 50 who are at average risk for colorectal cancer. Taking aspirin can increase the incidence of gastrointestinal bleeding and hemorrhagic stroke. NSAIDs may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, and heart problems. The USPSTF concluded that although taking aspirin and NSAIDs, in higher doses for longer periods, likely reduces the incidence of adenomatous polyps and may be associated with a reduction in the incidence of colorectal cancer, the harms associated with taking these medicines outweigh the benefits.