Health Tip: Help Prevent Colorectal Cancer

(HealthDay News) -- Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States, trailing only lung cancer, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says.

Some 140,000 Americans get colorectal cancer each year, resulting in more than 50,000 deaths, the agency says.

Your risk of developing colorectal cancer increases as you get older. And because you may not have symptoms, the CDC generally recommends screening after age 50 (younger than 50 if you're at higher risk).

How else can you reduce your risk? The CDC offers this advice:

  • Lead an active lifestyle.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Avoid drinking too much alcohol.
  • Do not smoke.

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