Hunterdon Gastroenterology Spring 2019 Healthy Bites Digest
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and women in the U.S. and the third most common cancer. 11 Colorectal Cancer is very treatable if caught early. The American Cancer Society estimates there will be over 140,000 new cases and over 50,000 deaths this year. Recent research has confirmed what many have suspected–more young people are dying of colorectal cancer. Ten percent of all new colorectal cancer patients are under the age of 50. Overall, the lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is: about 1 in 22 (4.49%) for men and 1 in 24 (4.15%) for women. There is currently no cure, but it’s 90 percent treatable if caught early with a screening. American Cancer Society estimates there will be over 140,000 new cases and over 50,000 deaths this year.
Researchers have found several factors that can increase a person’s risk of colorectal cancer, but it’s not clear exactly how all these factors might cause this cancer. Cancer is caused by changes in the DNA inside our cells. DNA is the chemical in our cells that makes up our genes, which control how our cells function.
A risk factor is anything that affects your chance of getting a disease such as cancer. Different cancers have different risk factors. Some risk factors, like smoking, can be changed. Others, like a person’s age or family history, can’t be changed.
Risk factors include being overweight, physical inactivity, certain types of diets, smoking, heavy alcohol use, age, a personal history of colorectal polyps, family history and inflammatory bowel disease.
To learn more about risks of Colon Cancer, please visit our website at www.HunterdonGastro.com
References:
1 https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal/statistics/index.htm
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/colon-rectal-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
Fun Facts!
Your stomach doesn’t play the biggest role in digestion.
The large intestine is responsible for more than eliminating waste.
The large intestine turns liquid waste into solid stool. The large intestine is also responsible for absorbing remaining nutrients and water the body needs. Waste products include undigested parts of food as well also older cells from the GI tract.
The stomach must protect itself from acid. Your stomach’s primary digestive juice—called hydrochloric acid—is highly corrosive. The stomach protects itself with a thick layer of mucus. Without that layer, the stomach acid would digest the stomach itself.
Team Spotlight: Andrea Goldstein, MD
Dr. Goldstein’s education began at Georgetown University. She completed her residency at North Shore University Hospital in New York and finished her Fellowship at University of Buffalo, Western NY Healthcare system. Dr. Goldstein is board certified in Gastroenterology/Hepatology.
We asked Dr. Goldstein why she went into Gastroenterology and she replied, “There is also a strong focus on prevention. Knowing that I can help prevent cancer through a procedure like colonoscopy is profoundly rewarding. As your doctor, I strive to give you the best possible medical care you can receive and an environment where you can feel comfortable. This starts with talking and listening closely to ensure that I get a complete picture of your medical history and symptoms, and that you understand what you need to know to follow your treatment plan and return for the follow-up testing you need to protect your health. Giving you my time, compassion, and full attention is as important as any test or procedure I perform.”
Learn more about our physicians by visiting, www.HunterdonGastro.com
Egg Salad with Greek Yogurt
What if eating Greek Yogurt could cut your risk of colon cancer? Research shows that it can aid in colon cancer prevention by improving digestive health and boosting immune health!
Greek yogurt is packed with “healthy” bacteria called probiotics. These “live microorganisms” help create a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut. They work to help improve digestive function, promote regularity, and help the immune system function at its best. Without probiotics, bad bacteria can build up and damage the immune system, creating digestive issues such as diarrhea, constipation, and pain. Certain probiotic strains can even help reduce inflammation, a known risk factor for colorectal cancer.
Greek yogurt is also a good source of calcium, with 20 percent of your daily recommendation in ½ cup. Studies show that higher calcium intake seems to protect high risk people from developing polyps that may later lead to colon cancer. Aim for more probiotic-rich Greek yogurt in your diet to support optimal immune and digestive health and prevent colon cancer.
RECIPE
Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 4 boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
- 3 tbsp chopped dill pickles
- 1/2 cup chopped avocado
- 3 tbsp plain nonfat Greek yogurt
- 3/4 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp spicy brown mustard
- 1/2 tsp dill weed
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- pinch of garlic powder
- pinch of onion powder
- handful of spring mix lettuce
- halved cherry tomatoes
Mix the eggs, chopped pickles and avocado is a large mixing bowl. In a smaller bowl combine yogurt, mustard, dill salt, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder. Pour into larger bowl of egg mixture and stir together. Serve egg salad on a bed of lettuce with halved cherry tomatoes.
Ref: Stop Colon Cancer Now.com https://www.stopcoloncancernow.com/buttseriously/colon-healthy-recipes/benefits-of-eating-greek-yogurt-colon-cancer-prevention
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