Yet today, only a small percentage of people are taking advantage of these screening tests. It is estimated that approximately 30,000 lives a year could be saved through widespread adoption of colorectal cancer screening in men and women. Along with regular colorectal cancer screenings, a low-fat diet high in fruits and vegetables, along with regular exercise, are our most effective defenses against the disease. While recent research has found that fruits and vegetables may not prevent colorectal cancer, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides overall health benefits and is still recommended. A single study can not provide conclusive evidence about the value of fruits and vegetables to colorectal cancer prevention.
More research needs to be completed before a definitive answer can be found.
The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with age. All men and women over the age of 50 should be tested regularly for the disease. Some people are at a higher risk for developing colorectal cancer and may need to be tested earlier. Minorities , particularly African Americans and Hispanics, are more likely to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in advanced stages and incidence rates for this portion of the population have risen sharply. All men and women should talk with their health care providers about colorectal cancer and colorectal cancer screening tests.