Colorectal cancer (colon cancer) is the second most common cancer in Hong Kong, and in recent years there is a trend of occurrence in the younger generation.
Colorectal cancer is closely related to the patient's eating habits. To reduce the risk of it, experts recommend restricting the eating of six types of food.
Dr. Teddy Fu Yu Hsiang, director of Taiwan Hsiang Zhan Clinic, said that colorectal cancer is easily ignored due to its inconspicuous initial symptoms. He said that the cause of colorectal cancer is closely related to one’s diet, as well as other factors, and it is recommended to consume less of the following six types of food.
1. Alcohol
Excessive alcohol consumption is a risk factor for colorectal cancer. As a general medical guide, 2 units a day for a man, and 1 unit a day for a woman, is the upper limit. Anything above these limits is considered excessive drinking. 1 unit is equivalent to 15 gm (0.03 ounce) of alcohol, which is about a 350ml (11.8 fl oz) can of beer or 40ml (1.35 fl oz) of whisky.2. Fried Food
For fried foods such as fried chicken, French fries, and salted chicken, it is recommended to control the number of times you eat each month.3. BBQ Food
Phenols produced by food from high-temperature barbecues also have risk factors for colorectal cancer.4. Red Meat
Reduce consumption of red meat, including pork, beef, and mutton. According to the British National Health Service (NHS) recommendation, the intake of red meat and processed meat should not exceed 90 grams (3.2 ounces) a day, and it is recommended that it should be less than 70 gm (2.4 ounces) for the best result. You can eat more fish and chicken and add more vegetables as a meal supplement.5. Processed Food
Processed foods such as sausages, ham, and hot pot ingredients often contain chemical additives, high in fat, salt, and sugar, so are not good for your health.6. Mouldy Food
Mouldy foods often contain carcinogens. Even if the mouldy parts are removed before consumption, the mycelium that is invisible to the naked eye has already contaminated the food and is harmful if eaten.Dr. Fu said that old people with less exercise, having their own medical history, and/or with a family member suffering from similar cases, poor eating habits, and smoking and drinking habits are all high-risk groups for colorectal cancer. He advised the public to have regular check-ups. The current common check-up methods include faecal occult blood tests and colonoscopies.