Bowel Cancer

Bowel Cancer rates increase by almost a quarter in past 35 years

It’s been in the news again this week.  Bowel Cancer (or colon cancer) rates are not reducing, but increasing, in both men and women.  However, the biggest increase has been in men in the 60 to 70 age groups, with bowel cancer rates increasing by 30% since the early 1980’s. (Cancer Research UK)

One of the major factors in the increase in bowel cancer rates has been diet, and the lack of adequate fibre in the diet of many men.  Too much red and processed meat, too much alcohol, too  many cigarettes, lack of physical exercise, and being overweight are also proven to increase the risk of bowel cancer. (World Cancer Research Fund).

Bowel cancer is caused by damaged cells, which can grow uncontrollably to form a tumour.  Many different factors contribute to the development of bowel cancer but, without a doubt, two of the most important are diet and lifestyle.  Diet and lifestyle choices are made by us every day, and we, therefore, are able to choose a healthier way of eating, look at our lifestyle, and decide how we can make adjustments to protect our bowels and add years to our lives.

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