1. Health

Don't Smoke

Colon Cancer Prevention Tip

From , former About.com Guide

Updated: February 22, 2007

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Don't smoke. That's one you've never heard before, right? It keeps popping up, but there's a reason: it's just horrible for you. Studies indicate that 12 percent of fatal colorectal cancers may be attributable to smoking.

Smoking increases your risk of developing colorectal cancer for two main reasons. First, inhaled or swallowed tobacco smoke transports carcinogens to the colon. Second, tobacco use appears to increase polyp size. In general, the bigger the polyp, the greater the chance it will become cancerous. (Check out the Polyp Size Gallery to see how big polyps are in real life.)

Feeling motivated? Visit About's Smoking Cessation site to learn what to expect when you quit, and find tools and support to help you succeed.

Related Research: Sources:
  1. Colorectal Cancer Prevention and Treatment. National Foundation for Cancer Research. 23 Jun. 2006 [http://www2.nfcr.org/site/PageServer?pagename=cancers_colorectal].
  2. Detailed Guide: Colon and Rectum Cancer: What Are the Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer? American Cancer Society. 7 Mar. 2006. 23 Jun. 2006 [http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_2X_What_are_the_risk_factors_for_colon_and_rectum_cancer.asp].
  3. Overview: Colon and Rectum Cancer: What Causes Colorectal Cancer? American Cancer Society. 15 Mar. 2006. 23 Jun. 2006 [http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_2_2X_What_causes_colorectal_cancer.asp?sitearea=].
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