Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths, and 90 percent of all cases are found in adults aged 50 and above. However, it is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer if detected early. It’s important for seniors to take certain steps to reduce their risk of cancer and maintain a high quality of life.
Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them obtain this goal. Families can trust in Anchorage, AK, home care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living a longer and healthier life. Professional home care experts discuss 5 ways to reduce a senior’s risk of colorectal cancer.
1. Get Regular Screenings
Regular screening for colorectal cancer is a must once a person reaches age 50. Doctors can look for symptoms such as polyps, and remove them before they can cause problems. Early discovery and treatment of colorectal cancer can also lead to a longer lifespan. Some common screenings include colonoscopies, sigmoidoscopies, fecal occult blood tests, stool DNA tests, and barium enemas. Talk to your loved …show more content…
Examine your loved one’s diet to see if he or she eats too many foods in the first category and too few in the second. Seniors should cut back on red meat, as studies have shown that it may increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Foods processed with sodium nitrates such as hotdogs, deli meat, and some bacon may also invite colorectal cancer. Instead, your loved one can opt for fiber-rich foods like beans, lentils, nuts, and oatmeal to help keep the digestive system on track. Try increasing your loved one’s intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, and add bell peppers, tomatoes, carrots, garlic, cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli, and green beans to his or her