Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the U.S., but the encouraging news is that many cases are preventable through healthy lifestyle changes. Research shows that diet, exercise, weight, alcohol use, and smoking habits can profoundly affect risk levels (American Cancer Society, 2025; World Cancer Research Fund/AICR, 2024).
At the Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay, our board-certified surgeons and specialists help patients reduce their colorectal cancer risk through personalized screening, nutrition guidance, and lifestyle strategies.
1. Eat a High-Fiber, Plant-Based Diet
A diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains promotes digestive health and may lower colorectal cancer risk by improving gut microbiota and reducing inflammation.
The World Cancer Research Fund (2024) found strong evidence that dietary fiber and whole grains protect against colorectal cancer, while red and processed meats increase risk. Even modest dietary improvements—like swapping refined grains for whole grains—can reduce long-term risk.
2. Stay Physically Active
Regular physical activity is linked to a 20–30% lower risk of colorectal cancer (Amirsasan et al., 2022). Exercise supports healthy metabolism, reduces inflammation, and improves immune surveillance against cancer cells.
The American Cancer Society recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week. Activities like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming can make a measurable difference.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity is a well-established risk factor for colorectal cancer, especially in men. Excess body fat drives hormonal and inflammatory changes that promote tumor growth (National Cancer Institute, 2024).
Maintaining a healthy body weight through balanced nutrition and consistent activity is one of the most effective prevention tools available.
4. Limit Alcohol and Avoid Tobacco
Even moderate alcohol use increases colorectal cancer risk (American Cancer Society, 2025). Smoking is also associated with higher rates of colorectal polyps and cancers (National Cancer Institute, 2024).
Limiting alcohol and quitting tobacco reduces systemic inflammation and improves overall digestive health.
5. Prioritize Regular Screening
Even with a healthy lifestyle, routine colorectal cancer screenings—like colonoscopy—remain the gold standard for prevention. They detect and remove precancerous polyps early, before they can develop into cancer.
At the Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay, our specialists, including Dr. Francisco Itriago and Dr. In Soon Park, provide comprehensive screening and prevention care for patients across Tampa Bay.
Visit tampacolorectal.com or call 813-685-7995 to schedule your consultation.
Healthy habits truly matter. By eating more fiber, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, and avoiding tobacco—combined with regular screenings—you can significantly lower your colorectal cancer risk.
At Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay, we’re here to guide and support every step toward better colorectal health.
Works Cited
American Cancer Society. (2025). Colorectal cancer risk factors. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html
Amirsasan, R., Akbarzadeh, M., & Akbarzadeh, S. (2022). Exercise and colorectal cancer: prevention and molecular mechanisms. Cancer Cell International, 22, 247. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12935-022-02670-3
National Cancer Institute. (2024). Colorectal cancer prevention overview (PDQ®)–Health professional version. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/types/colorectal/hp/colorectal-prevention-pdq
World Cancer Research Fund/AICR. (2024). Diet, nutrition, physical activity and colorectal cancer: A global perspective.Retrieved from https://www.wcrf.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Colorectal-cancer-report.pdf