Prevention is key. Cheung advises eating grains, vegetables, low fat, high fiber diet coupled with regular exercise. Since there is a genetic link to colorectal cancer, if a family member has been diagnosed, it is important to get screened. The Cancer Society also advises against smoking. Studies show that dietary changes have increased the chances of developing colorectal cancer among the Chinese American community.
Women are twice as susceptible.
When they move to the United States, their dietary habits change. Whether it's the hamburger or pizza, it increases the risk. Because 75 percent of all new cases occur in people over 50, the Cancer Society recommends periodic examinations. The testing or detection of colorectal cancer should involve yearly fecal and blood tests, and flexible sigmoidoscopy and double-contrast barium every five years, or a colonoscopy every 10 years. Numerous screening services are available and Medicare covers the costs.