This doctor does 3 things to prevent colon cancer, apart from eating healthy

The incidence of colorectal cancer also known as colon cancer, among people is growing at an alarming rate. As per a WHO report, by 2040 the burden of colorectal cancer will increase to 3.2 million new cases per year and 1.6 million deaths per year.

Lifestyle factors like intake of processed meats and low consumption of fruits and vegetables, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption are among the reasons attributed to the rise in colon cancer. 

The condition is mostly seen in older individuals and is often diagnosed at advanced stages when the treatment options are less. 

In colon cancer, the large intestine or rectum is affected and common symptoms include diarrhoea, constipation, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and low iron levels.

Dr James Kinross, a gastrointestinal surgeon, in a conversation with Business Insider, discussed the three things that he does other than healthy eating to stay away from colon cancer risk. 

Avoid unnecessary antibiotic consumption

Dr Kinross says limiting the use of antibiotics as much as possible can help avoid the disruption of the gut microbiome ecosystem. However, he says antibiotics need to be taken in the treatment of diseases but unnecessary consumption can be avoided. 

Take vitamin D supplement

He suggests that the intake of vitamin D supplements can help in gut health as it is crucial for several biological processes. 

Socialise

Research suggests that socialising positively impacts the composition of our gut microbiomes. 

"Our social interactions, our real-world social interactions, define so much of our health. It's good for all aspects of our health. It's good for our mental health, it's good for our cardiovascular health. It's good for everything. But if you're not having real-world social interaction, you are not really optimising your gut health, I believe," said Dr Kinross to Business Insider. 

Health