PROTECTIVE FACTORS

There are 3 types of Protective Factors which can affect your cancer risk.

Established Protective Factors are proven to reduce your risk of getting cancer.

Unknown Protective Factors have not been proven to reduce your risk.

ESTABLISHED PROTECTIVE FACTOR

Early Detection

Detecting cancer early by screening (such as a Colonoscopy) and polyp removal reduces your risk of getting colorectal cancer.

Physical Activity

Regular physical activity most days of the week has been proven to reduce your risk of getting colorectal cancer.

Aspirin Regimen

Studies have shown that taking aspirin regularly may reduce your risk of getting colorectal cancer.

Hormone Therapy

Regular physical activity most days of the week has been proven to reduce your risk of getting colorectal cancer.

UNKNOWN PROTECTIVE FACTORS

THESE HAVE NOT YET BEEN PROVEN TO REDUCE THE RISK OF GETTING COLORECTAL CANCER:

  • Calcium supplements

  • Specific diets

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) other than aspirin

STUDIES HAVE SHOWN THAT THESE DO NOT AFFECT THE RISK OF GETTING COLORECTAL CANCER:

  • Hormone replacement therapy with estrogen only.

  • Statins