Colon cancer ranks among the most common cancers in the United States. Yet it’s also one of the most preventable when we take the right steps early in life. If you’re asking, “what can I do to avoid getting colon cancer?” you’ve come to the right place. At Gastrodoxs, we’re here to guide Houston residents and readers everywhere on how to reduce your risk of developing colon cancer by focusing on lifestyle changes, daily habits, and practical steps to take now to prevent colon cancer later.
In this post, you’ll learn five simple but powerful steps you can start today. We draw on expert insights—like those from Dr Bharat Pothuri, a leading oncologist in the Houston area—and link to trusted sources such as the CDC and NIH. Let’s jump in.
Regular screening is your first defense. According to the CDC, getting screened can prevent colon cancer by finding and removing polyps before they turn cancerous.
Below is a quick comparison of popular screening tests:
| Test Name | Frequency | Pros | Cons |
| Colonoscopy | Every 10 years | Detects polyps directly; one test does it all | Requires prep; sedation |
| Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) | Yearly | Simple home test; no diet change needed | Lower sensitivity |
| Stool DNA Test (e.g., Cologuard) | Every 3 years | Detects DNA changes from polyps or cancer | More expensive than FIT |
“High-quality screening is vital,” says Dr Bharat Pothuri. “It’s often the difference between early action and a late-stage diagnosis.”
External resource: Learn more about screening guidelines at the CDC’s Prevent Colon Cancer page.
What you eat plays a major role in daily habits that lower colon cancer risk. A diet full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants helps keep your digestive system healthy.
“Nutrition is one of the simplest lifestyle changes to prevent colon cancer naturally,” explains Dr Pothuri. “Small swaps make a big difference over time.”
External resource: The NIH offers a thorough guide on dietary fiber and colon health.
You’ve probably heard that exercise is good for your heart. It’s also a powerful way to reduce colon cancer risk. Regular activity helps food move through your colon and reduces inflammation.
“Even small bursts of movement—like a 10-minute walk after lunch—add up,” says Dr Bharat Pothuri. “They’re key daily habits that lower colon cancer risk.”
Excess body weight is linked to higher colon cancer risk. Carrying extra pounds puts more stress on your colon and can fuel chronic inflammation.
“Healthy weight management supports all of our bodies’ systems, including colon health,” notes Dr Pothuri. “It’s a crucial step you can take now to prevent colon cancer later.”
Alcohol and tobacco use are well-known risk factors for colon cancer. Cutting back on these habits helps protect your colon lining and overall health.
“Breaking these habits can be challenging, but the rewards for colon health are significant,” says Dr Pothuri. “Every day without tobacco or excessive alcohol is a day your risk goes down.”
By weaving in these lifestyle changes to prevent colon cancer naturally, you’ll be on a clear path toward better health—both in Houston and beyond.
Taking control of your colon health starts with simple, actionable steps. From regular screening and a fiber-rich diet to staying active and quitting tobacco or alcohol, you have the power to reduce your risk. As Dr Bharat Pothuri reminds us, “Prevention is a team effort—your body, your doctor, and your daily habits working together.”
For Houston residents, consider visiting local screening centers and farmers markets to make these steps part of your routine. And remember that every positive change brings you closer to a healthier future.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Most guidelines say 45 for average risk. Talk with your doctor if you have a family history.
Generally every 10 years if results are normal. Your doctor may suggest more frequent checks.
Diet plays a big role, but combining healthy eating with screening and exercise gives the best protection.
Regular movement, a fiber-rich diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol and tobacco.
BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height (m²). Many online calculators make it easy.
Home tests like FIT are helpful but less sensitive than colonoscopy; positive results need follow-up.
Moderate coffee intake is fine. Focus on overall alcohol moderation.
Family history raises your risk. But healthy lifestyle changes still help lower it.
– Look for accredited facilities with experienced gastroenterologists and positive patient reviews.
Follow your doctor’s screening schedule, stick to a high-fiber diet, stay active, and maintain a healthy weight.
