The ACS recommends discussing the benefits and drawbacks of genetic testing with a qualified physician or genetic counselor before any genetic testing is done. Genetic counseling with a qualified person should always precede the testing. Even though the exact cause of most colorectal cancer is not known, it is possible to prevent many colon cancers. Following screening guidelines can lower the number of cases of the disease by detecting and removing polyps that could become cancerous, and can also lower the death rate from colorectal cancer by finding disease early when it is highly curable. Prevention and early detection are possible because most colon cancers develop from adenomatous polyps.
Polyps are precancerous growths in the colon and rectum.
Removing them can lower a person's risk by preventing some colorectal cancers before they are fully formed. People can lower their risk of developing colorectal cancer by managing the risk factors that they can control, such as diet and physical activity. It is important to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grain foods and to limit intake of high-fat foods. Physical activity is another area that people can control. Even small amounts of exercise on a regular basis can be helpful.