Research shows that the links between lifestyle, diet and the development of bowel cancer are becoming increasingly apparent.
According to Bowel Cancer UK, a family history of bowel cancer is not the only factor that can influence the likelihood of developing the disease.
Classic lifestyle choices such as eating more fruit and vegetables, no drinking too much alcohol, not smoking, avoiding regular consumption of fatty and processed foods and leading an active life can significantly factor in a person’s chances of developing cancer of the bowel.
Ian Beaumont, director of communications at Bowel Cancer UK, said: "What is becoming increasingly clear from most recent research is the links between bowel cancer, and diet and lifestyle issues.
"Slowly but surely, issues are being linked with bowel cancer. It’s not a guarantee you are not going to get it [bowel cancer], but these factors help prevent it."
Figures show that colon cancer is the second leading cause of death from cancer in the US – killing more than 56,000 Americans, equally affecting both men and women.
