Prevention of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is a preventable disease. We currently have the means to substantially decrease the incidence and mortality from this disease; we simply need to implement primary and secondary prevention measures. I encourage patients to eat a diet low in meat and high in vegetables, fruit, and fiber. I also encourage patients to avoid obesity and engage in a regular exercise program. I routinely screen persons at average risk using fecal occult blood tests or flexible sigmoidoscopy after the age of 50 years. Those at higher risk by virtue of family history, a personal history of ulcerative colitis, or previous adenoma should have colonoscopy performed using a schedule tailored to their risk profile.