A wealth of medical research exists suggesting that eating too much red meat can cause health problems ranging from heart disease to cancer. However, you may not be aware that consuming too many hot dogs and hamburgers can also affect your colorectal health and even raise your risk of developing colon cancer.

In honor of March being Colon Cancer Awareness month, Dr. Berookim wants to shine the spotlight on colon cancer and examine ways of promoting good colorectal health. To learn more about colon cancer causes, or determine if you are at risk, feel free to schedule an appointment at The Gastroenterology Institute of Southern California.

The Study

A recent study published in the journal Cancer Causes Control indicates that red meat may have a serious impact on your risk of developing colon cancer. After reviewing 26 different population studies, researchers determined that eating red and processed meats like hot dogs, sausages and hamburgers was associated with a 30 percent higher chance of developing colorectal adenomas (precancerous growths). It is important to note that not every patient with adenomas goes on to develop colon cancer. However, in some cases, adenomas do become cancerous.

Reducing Your Colon Cancer Risk

You can take steps to reduce your risk of developing adenomas and colon cancer. In fact, the American Institute of Cancer Research states that diet and lifestyle changes could help prevent half of all cases of colorectal cancer in the US.

Here are some tips to help you maintain good colorectal health and reduce your cancer risk:

– Avoid processed meats likes hot dogs, hamburgers, bacon and cold cuts.

– Limit red meat consumption to 18 ounces (of cooked meat) each week

– Exercise regularly and keep weight under control

 

According to the AICR, 72,000 cases of colorectal cancer could be avoided each year if Americans made these lifestyle and dietary adjustments.

Colonoscopy Screening

While modifying your diet and limiting red meat consumption are obviously important to maintaining a health colon, it’s also crucial to visit a doctor for colon cancer screening. The gold standard in colon cancer prevention, a colonoscopy is both a diagnostic and a preventative procedure in that it allows Dr. Berookim to remove pre-cancerous polyps before cancer can develop.

 

In general, patients should undergo their first colonoscopies at age 50. However, someone with a family history of colon cancer should begin screenings at age 40 or ten years before the relative was diagnosed. Because they have a higher risk of colon cancer, African Americans should commence screening at age 45. Anyone with symptoms concerning for colon cancer, including bleeding, unexpected weight loss or changes in bowel habits, should not hesitate to be screened.

Contact Dr. Berookim

Double board certified in internal medicine and gastroenterology, Dr. Peyton Berookim performs colonoscopies and other treatments and procedures at his state-of-the-art office in Beverly Hills. If you would like to schedule a colonoscopy or speak to Dr. Berookim about another issue affecting the health of your digestive system, don’t hesitate to call him at 310.271.1122.