Bowel cancer affects the large bowel and the rectum, which are the lower parts of our digestive system. Bowel cancer affects both men and women equally. The exact cause of bowel cancer is unknown but people who have a family history of the disease come under the high risk category of developing bowel cancer.

A family history of bowel cancer means a person has at least one close relative, such as a brother, sister, mother, or father (i.e.: first-degree relative) who is diagnosed with the disease before the age of 45. When two or more of a person's first-degree relatives are affected by bowel cancer, regardless of age, then he/she is also thought to be at high-risk. Bowel cancer prevention must start by keeping a record of your family health history: a family tree for three generations of your family listing their health problems. If you find a significant family history of bowel cancer in your family then you should consult your doctor.

Bowel cancer can be detected at an early stage by monitoring stools, and especially by keeping vigilant for bleeding during defecation. However bleeding can be caused by other medical condition like piles and this should not be confused with the early signs of bowel cancer. In cases of early bowel cancer, you may experience some obvious change in bowel habits. In any case, if you suspect the possibility of early stages of bowel cancer, you must get yourself checked thoroughly by your doctor the soonest possible.

Prevention of Bowel Cancer

Bowel cancer can be prevented by taking a high fiber, low fat diet, which is rich in Vitamin C. Fibrous foods play an important role in gastrointestinal health and the physical presence of fiber in the gastrointestinal tract is important in the prevention of bowel cancer. The fiber in the bowel is broken down by good bacteria producing butyric acid, a type of fatty acid. Butyric acid keeps the walls of your digestive tract healthy and reduces the risk of developing bowel cancer.

Citrus fruits and dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach, spring greens, green peppers, and broccoli can help combat and prevent bowel cancer. In addition, deep orange-yellow fruit and vegetables, such as carrots, peaches, oranges, and bananas are also helpful.

Besides this, you should also eat at least 18 gm of fiber each day and take plenty of liquids. Good sources of fiber include pineapples, brown rice, pasta, and high fiber cereals. Fat intake for each day should not be more than 30% of your total calorie intake.

Finally, do not be too optimistic. This is only your first step. But it is easy to understand and easy to do.