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New Clues About the Rise of Colon Cancer in Young People

New Clues About the Rise of Colon Cancer in Young People

(Hint: It involves the gut’s microbiome)

Fast Facts:

  • The rate of Colon Cancer is on the rise in people between 20-45 years of age. Young people are also more likely to have an advanced stage of colorectal cancer at the time of diagnosis.
  • Doctors believe that an imbalance of healthy bacteria (dysbiosis) in the intestine promotes chronic inflammation which can lead to colon cancer. Since young people aren’t routinely screened, the cancer is more likely to be advanced once symptoms show up.
  • Many common medications can disrupt the balance of bacteria, allowing dangerous bacteria to grow unchecked. Some bacteria (like E. coli) can produce dangerous chemicals that can alter DNA in the cells lining the gut.

Colon and rectal cancer have been declining in people over the age of 50 for the last couple of decades. Those cancers are also more likely to be cured. Doctors think that this trend is due to more people getting screened so that polyps are removed before they turn into cancer. They also point to advances in treatments. 

Unfortunately, the data are moving in the opposite direction in younger people, between the ages of 20-45. As a matter of fact, the rate of colon cancer in young people has more than doubled since 1995. The rate is expected to double again before 2030. Doctors speculate that this devastating increase could be due to lack of exercise, increased rates of obesity or eating more processed foods. 

Recent research also suggests that medications can impact the health of the microbes (all the bacteria, viruses and fungi) in our guts, and may contribute to colon and rectal cancer. The microbes and intestinal cells lining the colon (large intestine) make up the microbiome. The microbiome controls how nutrients are absorbed, makes neurotransmitters and hormones, and can influence inflammation in the body. Let’s take a look at what the new research shows.

How can medications damage the gut?

Researchers at Stanford University looked at the bacteria in healthy intestines. They found a lot of different types and numbers of microbes (good diversity). They then exposed the microbes to hundreds of different common medications and then checked on the number and type of bacteria again. They found that certain medications killed off the healthy bacteria. Fewer healthy bacteria meant that there were more nutrients for the unhealthy, inflammation-promoting bacteria to grow in greater numbers. Inflammation is one of the biggest risk factors for colon cancer.

What medications damage the gut?

The researchers tested 707 medications, one at a time. They found over a 140 that killed off good bacteria and allowed damaging bacteria to grow unchecked. These medications included:

  • 55 different antibiotics
  • Some chemotherapy drugs
  • Antifungal drugs
  • Antipsychotic drugs used to treat bipolar disorder and schizophrenia

Some of these medications wipe out entire populations of good bacteria, allowing a dangerous strain of E. coli to grow.

What makes E. coli dangerous?

Not all E. coli bacteria are dangerous. In an earlier blog post, we discussed a strain of E.coli that makes a toxin called colibactin. Colibactin can damage the gut lining, cause chronic inflammation and mutate DNA. Damaged DNA is usually found in polyps and colon cancers. This strain of E.coli is frequently found in young people who have colon cancer.

Is there a way to prevent dysbiosis?

There’s no guaranteed way to prevent dysbiosis or colon cancer. Here are some things you can do to keep your microbiome as healthy as possible:

  • Eat a healthy diet and focus on getting enough fiber.
  • Only take medications if they are needed and prescribed by your doctor. Antibiotics don’t work on viruses.
  • Avoid highly processed foods.
  • Avoid alcohol and smoking.
  • Minimize sugary foods.
  • Get enough sleep, 7-8 hours each night.
  • Try to manage your stress levels.
  •  Exercise on a regular basis.

The Bottom Line

Sometimes medications can be lifesaving, but they do carry risks. New research shows that common medications like antibiotics, some chemotherapy drugs, antipsychotics and antifungals can disrupt gut health leading to dysbiosis. Colon and rectal cancer is on the rise in young people and they are more likely to have markers of dysbiosis. If you are having any abnormal bowel symptoms, talk to your doctor and get checked out. Check it for the people you love. CheckIt4Andretti.

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By admin@checkit4, ago

James Van Der Beek’s Colon Cancer Diagnosis

James Van Der Beek’s Colon Cancer Diagnosis

It seems as if someone famous is being diagnosed with colon cancer almost weekly.  CheckIt4Andretti posted a blog last year, highlighting celebrities, like John Andretti himself, who were in the prime of life, yet fell to the ravages of colon cancer. Today, we have a more hopeful story to tell: that of James Van Der Beek. His colon cancer was caught before it spread, and he’s cautiously optimistic about the future and raising awareness for others.

How did Van Der Beek get diagnosed with colon cancer?

At 46 years old, James Van Der Beek was the picture of health. He was busy filming, traveling and keeping up with his 6 children. The star of Dawson’s Creek, said he noticed bowel changes that he blamed on too much cream or coffee. About 50% of people diagnosed with colon cancer notice bowel habits as their first symptom.When things didn’t improve after a while, he went to see his doctor. Since he was the right age for a colonoscopy(45 or older is the current recommendation), his doctor ordered one right away. Surprisingly, the colonoscopy revealed Stage 3 colon cancer.

Why was this a surprising diagnosis?

Van Der Beek said he always associated cancer with being older or living an unhealthy lifestyle. He states that he had no known risk factors. He described himself as:

  • Young (46 yo)
  • Healthy and active 
  • Thin and fit
  • Having no family history
  • Having no genetic risk factors

Despite eating well, exercising, and having no known risk factors, James Van Der Beek was diagnosed with Stage 3 colon cancer.

The good news

Despite the shocking news, the doctor offered the Van Der Beek family a cause for hope. Even though the cancer was Stage 3, it had not moved to lymph nodes or other parts of his body, In other words, the tumor was localized to only one part of the colon. According to the American Cancer Society, data shows that localized colon cancer carries a 90% 5 year survival rate. Treatment for colon cancer usually involves surgery, chemotherapy and sometimes radiation therapy.

Looking Forward

Van Der Beek plans to continue working and focus on living his healthiest life possible. He treasures the strong support he gets from family, friends and fans and leans heavily on his faith. He said that he wanted to go public about his diagnosis to encourage other people to pursue health and get screened– even if you don’t have symptoms. His advocacy includes being active on social media, doing interviews, and raising money for colon cancer. Last year, Van Der Beek teamed up with other celebrities to make a Fox TV special, The Real Full Monty, to raise awareness and get men to go to their doctors. Recently, he partnered with Guardant Health to raise awareness about new advances in colon cancer screening.

The Bottom Line

Colon cancer can strike whether you’re young and healthy, a famous celebrity, or a 60 year old mechanic. Start getting screened beginning at age 45. The bottom line is that before 45, you should listen to your body. If something seems amiss and it’s not getting better, get checked out by your doctor. Catching colon cancer early means a much greater chance of survival. Check it for the ones you love. CheckIt4Andretti.

Here’s how you can help us wipe out colon cancer:

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By admin@checkit4, ago

What is a Good Gut Health Diet?

What is a Good Gut Health Diet?

Fast Facts

  • A healthy diet and a healthy gut are more closely linked to lower colon cancer rates and better survival than any other type of cancer.
  • A diet low in fiber but high in processed foods, refined sugar, and red meat can lead to an unhealthy gut and higher risk of colorectal cancer.
  • Getting enough fiber and nutrients by eating minimally processed or whole foods can help keep your microbiome healthy and lower your chances of developing colorectal cancer.

Some of our past articles have discussed what to eat over the holidays, how a healthy gut microbiome impacts colon cancer and the importance of fiber (especially soluble fiber). Did you know that colon cancer is more closely linked to what you eat than any other type of cancer? Good gut health has the potential to reduce your risk of getting colon cancer and can improve your survival if you’re unfortunate enough to be diagnosed with this dreaded disease. So, what is a good gut health diet? Let’s take a look!

What is a healthy gut?

A healthy gut is made up of thousands of helpful bacteria, viruses, fungi, and gut lining cells (colonocytes). All of these together make up the microbiome. In a healthy gut, the good microorganisms outnumber the bad ones. There are more cells living inside your gut than in the rest of your body! A healthy gut microbiome helps with all aspects of health, including:

  • Digestion and absorbing nutrition
  • Immune system function
  • Fighting off harmful bacteria in the gut
  • Lowering inflammation throughout the body
  • Overall brain health (many neurotransmitters are made in the gut)
  • Reducing the risk of some types of cancer

What do I eat on a gut health diet?

Some types of food have been shown to increase the diversity of helpful microorganisms in the gut. Eating more of these foods actually feeds the bacteria and fungi in your microbiome. Here are some of the foods that help make a healthy gut:

  1. Fiber-rich foods: You should aim for about 25-35 grams of fiber a day. Some examples of fiber-rich foods include whole grain cereals, popcorn, whole fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, beans and legumes. If you can’t reach your fiber goals with whole foods, consider adding a supplement. One type of fiber (called resistant starch, starchy fiber, or prebiotic fiber) can’t be digested by humans. It passes through the gut and feeds the healthy bacteria in your gut. Prebiotic fiber is a powerhouse fuel for a healthy gut.
  2. Leafy greens and brightly colored vegetables and fruits: Not only do leafy greens and vegetables have lots of fiber, they also offer phytonutrients like anti-oxidants, polyphenols, anthocyanins, lycopenes, carotenoids and other beneficial compounds. They help prevent cancer, reduce inflammation and are anti-aging.
  3. Dairy: Enjoying dairy products like yogurt, ghee or butter, milk and cheese can reduce colon cancer risk by up to 20%. Doctors believe that calcium from dairy is the main reason for this observation, but probiotics are also thought to play a role.
  4. Healthy fats/oils: Focus on eating healthy fats like omega-3s (salmon), extra virgin olive oil, avocados, and nuts. Healthy fats are anti-inflammatory and help with a healthy cholesterol level.
  5. Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds have so many health benefits. They contain trace nutrients, fiber, healthy fats and protein. They can be enjoyed as a snack or added to a salad. They’re easy to carry with you, too.
  6. Whole grains: Whole grain foods contain all parts of the grain, including the bran, germ and endosperm. Enriched or processed grain foods remove the bran and germ and then add nutrients back. Even when food producers try to add nutrients back into grain foods, they can’t get the same nutritional value and health benefits that are present in whole grains. If you’re avoiding gluten, there are many whole grain options available besides wheat, barley and rye. Consider whole corn, oats, buckwheat or amaranth as alternatives.
  7. Water: The best way to hydrate is also the simplest- water. Add some sugar-free electrolytes or lemon, lime or cucumbers for a little variety.

The closer foods are to being “whole,” the healthier they are. Processing food removes nutritional value and frequently adds unhealthy sugars, fats, preservatives and other chemicals. Whole foods are always the first choice, as supplements don’t seem to provide the same cancer-fighting benefits.

For a handy-dandy gut health cheat sheet that you can print out, click here!

Are there foods I should avoid for gut health?

While some foods super-charge your microbiome, there are other foods that can damage your gut health. These are some of the foods/drinks you should limit or avoid to help keep your gut as healthy as it can be:

  1. Processed foods: As we talked about in the last section, processing foods removes many of the healthy nutrients naturally found in them. What’s even worse is that food manufacturers then add unhealthy (but tasty) things like sugar, fat and preservatives to make the food more palatable. These additives can wreak havoc on the bacteria in your gut, and can even cause inflammation and damage the lining of your intestines.
  2. Red meat and processed meat products: These foods may be high in calories and fat and processed meat can have a lot of artificial ingredients. Opt for leaner cuts of red meat, or choose poultry or fish, instead.
  3. Refined sugar: Foods high in simple carbohydrates and refined sugars have been shown to be associated with a higher risk of colon cancer. This relationship is especially strong for people who don’t exercise or are overweight. Refined sugar promotes inflammation, raises insulin levels, and is thought to directly feed cancer cells. Foods that contain high amounts of sugar, like sodas and sweet treats, have very little nutritional value.
  4. Alcohol: Drinking alcohol has many negative effects on health. It damages the liver and lining of the colon, impairs the microbiome and raises the risk of developing colorectal cancer by  20-47%, depending on how much you drink. The current recommendation is that you should only drink on special occasions for optimal health. If you do drink, limit it to 1 drink/day for women and 2 drinks/day for men.

Are there other things I can do for my gut health?

In addition to eating a healthy diet there are a few other “life-style” changes you can make to optimize your gut health. Some small steps you can take include:

  • Get enough sleep. Getting 7-9 hours of sleep each night will not only help you feel more rested, it will also help with stress hormone levels and help with weight (both impact colon cancer risk).
  • Stop smoking. Smoking contributes to virtually every type of human cancer.
  • Get moving. Exercise can promote a healthy microbiome. Walking around your neighborhood is a great way to start.
  • Lose weight.  Diet-driven weight loss reduces inflammation and turns off cancer-promoting metabolic pathways.
  • Manage stress. Chronic stress is associated with an unhealthy gut microbiome, increased inflammation and colon cancer progression. Stress management techniques like mindfulness, yoga, breathing exercises, and meditation may be helpful.

The Bottom Line

What you eat is an important step toward achieving a healthy gut. By getting the right vitamins, fiber, and macronutrients, you can build a gut microbiome that has the best chance of fighting off colon cancer. Unhealthy, processed foods and alcohol can sabotage your hard work. Lifestyle changes like losing a few pounds, exercising and getting enough sleep will boost your efforts even more. Even if you do everything right, you still need to be screened for colon cancer beginning at age 45. Get checked for your loved ones. CheckIt4Andretti.

Here’s how you can help us wipe out colon cancer:

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By admin@checkit4, ago

Noninvasive Alternatives to Colonoscopy

Noninvasive Alternatives to Colonoscopy

Fast Facts:

  • Colonoscopy is the gold standard for detecting colon cancer and precancerous polyps.
  • Only about 60% of people who should be getting screened for colon cancer are currently up to date.
  • Noninvasive options to colonoscopy include stool tests, radiology tests, and a new blood test. If the noninvasive test is abnormal, your doctor will recommend a colonoscopy to confirm the diagnosis.

In an earlier post, we talked about what is the best screening test for colon cancer. The bottom line answer to that question is that it’s the test you are most likely to complete. Many people feel intimidated by the colonoscopy procedure, even though it is still the gold standard. If the thinking about the bowel prep, period of fasting, and having anesthesia seems overwhelming, it’s important to know that you still have many alternatives for staying on track and getting screened starting at age 45. Let’s take a look at the noninvasive alternatives to colonoscopy, and discuss their pros and cons.

What are the different types of noninvasive colon cancer screening tests?

There are 3 different ways that doctors can look for colon cancer without doing a colonoscopy. Each one has advantages and drawbacks, but can be a good initial screening test if you are not at an increased risk of developing colon cancer. These are the types of noninvasive alternatives:

Stool-based tests

Stool-based tests rely on looking at a stool sample. There are 3 different types of stool tests. 

  1. Fecal occult blood test (gFOBT): gFOBT, also called a hemoccult test, checks for blood in your stool that can’t necessarily be seen with the naked eye. It’s easy to do and very inexpensive. The doctor can do it in the office when you have a physical exam. You can also take a kit home with a special card and swab. After a bowel movement you just swab your stool and smear it on the filter paper on the card. You seal the card up and send it back to your doctor. 

 A few drops of a liquid called “guaiac” are placed on the filter. If the color turns blue, it means there’s blood in your stool. This doesn’t mean you have cancer, but it does mean you need to find out why there’s blood in your stool. Your doctor will probably recommend that you get a colonoscopy.

It’s important not to take NSAIDs, eat red meat or have citrus/vitamin C for a few days before the test because they can cause a false positive result.

  1. FIT test: “Fecal immunochemical test”(FIT) is done similar to the gFBOT. FIT test is a more specific test, because it uses antibodies to check for blood in the stool. You don’t have to worry about vitamins, medications or what you eat before the test. If it’s abnormal, you’ll need to follow-up with a colonoscopy right away. The FIT test should be done every year.
  2. FIT-DNA test: FIT-DNA tests like Cologuard, look for hidden blood. It also detects the abnormal DNA from cancer cells. It’s different from FIT and gFOBT because you’ll need to collect your entire bowel movement in the special container, freeze the container and send it back to the lab in a special package. 

If any abnormal DNA or blood is found, you’ll need a colonoscopy to check for signs of cancer in your colon, such as polyps. FIT-DNA should be done every 3 years if the results are normal.

Radiology test

A CT colonography or “virtual colonoscopy” is done by a radiologist. It uses X-rays to create a 3-dimensional picture of your colon and rectum. Unlike stool tests, it can visualize small abnormalities like tumors or polyps. 

Most people don’t need to be sedated for a virtual colonoscopy. The colon and rectum have to be cleaned out ahead of time using a “bowel prep.” The day before the scan, you’ll be asked to take medications that cause your bowels to completely empty. Stool in the colon will make it hard to read the scans correctly and small polyps might be missed.

Just before the CT scan, you’ll drink a “contrast solution,” which helps show the bowel  lining on the X-rays. A small tube is to introduce air into your rectum and colon. Finally, you’ll need to hold your breath for a few seconds at a time while the scan is done. The main side effect is feeling a little bloated until all the air is passed.

A virtual colonoscopy should be done every 5 years if everything looks ok. If any abnormalities are seen, you’ll need to get a colonoscopy.

Blood test

Blood tests are the latest tools in our arsenal against colon cancer. The Shield Test was the first “liquid biopsy” test FDA approved (2024) for colon and rectal cancer. The test is called a “liquid biopsy” because it uses blood to look for a specific type of cancer; in this case, colorectal cancer. When colon cancer is growing in the gut, cells that die release cancerous DNA into the bloodstream. The abnormal DNA can be detected in the blood by doing a test using antibodies that only recognize genes from cancer cells. The antibodies don’t recognize normal DNA in the blood. This type of DNA is called cell-free DNA (cfDNA) or circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). The test is only positive if cancer DNA is in the blood.

The advantage of a blood screening test is that it can be done when other routing blood tests are drawn, meaning you’re more likely to follow through and get it done. No bowel prep is needed for the blood test and you don’t have to collect a stool sample.

Since the Shield test was approved last year, several other blood tests have completed testing and are applying for FDA approval. Hopefully, there will be several blood test options available in the near future that offer improvements, like looking for pre-cancerous polyps. 

What are the downsides to colonoscopy screening alternatives?

If you’re ready, willing and able to get colon cancer screening done, one of the noninvasive alternatives might be a good choice for you. The noninvasive alternatives come with a few downsides, however. Some of the disadvantages include:

  • They are only options for people who are at “average risk.” If you have any history that raises your risk of colon cancer- a close family member with colon cancer, an abnormal test in the past, or certain genetic conditions– you should opt for a colonoscopy instead.
  • They may not find precancerous polyps. Precancerous polyps are best detected with a colonoscopy and they can even be removed at the same time.
  • Noninvasive tests are more likely to have false positive and false negative results than a colonoscopy. A false positive test will lead to your doctor recommending a colonoscopy. A false negative test could mean that colon cancer continues to grow inside you until your next screening test. That’s why noninvasive screening tests are done more frequently than colonoscopy.

If you’re reluctant to get a colonoscopy, or unlikely to follow-through with the procedure, staying on top of the noninvasive screening test of your choice is the next best option.

Why is colonoscopy still considered the “gold standard”?

Colonoscopy is still considered the gold standard screening tool. It offers several advantages over all the other types of tests currently available. Advantages include:

  • The doctor can directly look at the entire colon and rectum. The doctor can see any areas of bleeding, polyps, ulcers, hemorrhoids or other lesions that may cause other tests to be positive.
  • Colonoscopy can help prevent colon cancer. If a precancerous polyp is found during a colonoscopy, the doctor can remove it at that time, preventing it from turning into a cancerous lesion.
  • Colonoscopy offers the benefit of being both a screening test and a treatment at the same time. Because your doctor can directly detect a polyp (the test), they can also remove the polyp (the treatment) during the same procedure. If any of the other screening “tests” are abnormal, a colonoscopy will be needed as a follow-up.Colonoscopy has the longest screening interval when nothing abnormal is found. You only need to get a colonoscopy every ten years, as opposed to 1, 3 or 5 years.

The Bottom Line

Routine screening has been proven to reduce the rate of colon cancer and improve survival, but many people are reluctant to make the commitment to getting a colonoscopy. Luckily, there are many other great screening tests available that don’t involve a bowel prep, investment of time or anesthesia. Depending on your personal preferences, a noninvasive alternative to a colonoscopy can be a good way to screen. No matter which way you decide to go, make sure you get checked out starting at age 45. Check it for the people you love. CheckIt4Andretti.

Here’s how you can help us wipe out colon cancer:

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Take the Colon Cancer Risk Assessment

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By admin@checkit4, ago

Doctors Find A New Clue About What’s Causing Colon Cancer in Young People

Doctors Find A New Clue About What’s Causing Colon Cancer in Young People

Fast Facts:

  • Colon cancer rates are rising in people under 50 years old, but going down in older people.
  • Younger people are more likely to have more advanced, and more aggressive, cancer than older people at the time of diagnosis.
  • Doctors have found that young people with colon cancer are 3 times more likely to have DNA damage due to a chemical (called colibactin) produced by strains of E. coli.

Colon and rectal cancer has traditionally been a disease of older adults. As a matter of fact, the majority of cases of colorectal cancer (CRC) is diagnosed in people over 60 years of age. Luckily, the rate of CRC in people over 50 years old has been going down steadily over the past several decades. This trend is thought to be due to increased screening and awareness of symptoms. 

Unfortunately, the rate of CRC is going in the opposite direction in younger people. What’s even more alarming is that CRC in young adults tends to be more advanced at the time of diagnosis. The cancer is oftentimes more aggressive, as well, meaning that it can have a worse outcome. Doctor’s have worked to figure out why this disturbing trend is happening. A recent study published in the medical journal, Nature, found a new characteristic of CRC in young people that isn’t seen frequently in cancers of people over 70. Let’s take a look at the report and what it means.

Who gets colorectal cancer?

Anyone can get colorectal cancer, but typically it’s been a disease of older people. Due to improved screening, such as colonoscopies and FIT tests, polyps are being caught before they become cancerous and cancer is being found at an early stage while it’s still curable. Current guidelines recommend that every American adult be screened for CRC beginning at age 45. Increased awareness and screening has led to a steady decrease in CRC in people over 50 years old.

Young people don’t need to worry about CRC, right?

The same drop in CRC rates isn’t true for younger adults, meaning those under 40. CRC deaths are on track to become the #1 cause of cancer deaths in young people by 2030. CRC diagnosis and deaths have doubled in young people in the past 20 years. Part of the reason that young people have a worse outcome than older individuals is thought to be that CRC is more advanced at the time of diagnosis. This may be due to a lack of awareness about symptoms, chalking bowel changes up to stress or other benign causes, or embarrassment about discussing bowel issues. Another reason for the worse outcome may be that the cancer may be more aggressive than CRC in older adults. How aggressive a tumor is and how far it has spread has a major impact on whether it can be cured or not.

So what’s different about CRC in younger adults?

For many years, doctors have thought that the microbiome– the collection of bacteria, viruses and fungi found in every person’s gut- plays a big part in whether an individual gets colon cancer, and how hard it is to treat. A new study published in the journal, Nature, specifically looked at DNA changes in patients with colon cancer. They found evidence that a chemical called colibactin had damaged (mutated) the DNA of younger patients with CRC. Colibactin is made by an unhealthy strain of the bacteria, E. coli. Patients under 40 years of age were 3-5 times more likely to have those changes in their DNA than those over 70 years old.

Why are young people more at risk for this type of DNA damage?

The researchers who published the article suggest a few ideas for why this type of damage is seen in younger people and not in older adults. They speculate that the damage happens during the first ten years of life. The mutations happen early, and then take years to develop into cancer. Some of the reasons that may lead to the proliferation of dangerous strains of E. coli include:

  • Increased use of antibiotics over the past several decades. Antibiotics kill off good bacteria and can make it easier for more dangerous bacteria to thrive.
  • The rise in highly processed foods, especially processed meats.
  • The lack of fiber in modern diets. Fiber has been shown to promote a healthy microbiome.
  • The presence of microplastics disrupts a healthy microbiome.

The world has changed dramatically in the last 40-50 years. Many of our modern innovations may have a negative impact on gut health.

What can I do to maintain a healthy gut?

Doctors don’t think that unhealthy strains of E. coli are the “one size fits all” answer to the colon cancer epidemic in young people. Here are some ways that you can keep your gut healthy to reduce your (and you child’s) risk of developing colon cancer:

  • Get plenty of fiber.
  • Use antibiotics only when necessary. 
  • Minimize alcohol use and tobacco.
  • Get exercise on a regular basis.
  • Avoid processed foods, especially red meats and those high in sugar or fat.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.

You can’t change your genetics or what happened in the past, but you can make these positive changes to reduce your future risk.

The Bottom Line

Colon cancer rates are rising in people under 40, but dropping in older age groups. Researchers have found a specific type of DNA damage in young people with CRC that they attribute to a chemical made by unhealthy bacteria. The chemical, colibactin, is made by a strain of E. coli. While this new discovery doesn’t appear to be a smoking gun, it does reinforce the need for everyone to maintain a healthy gut microbiome in order to reduce your risk of CRC. If you have any suspicions that you might have colon cancer, talk to your doctor about getting checked out. Check it for the ones you love. CheckIt4Andretti. 

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By admin@checkit4, ago

How Do I get a Free Colonoscopy and Other Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I get a Free Colonoscopy and Other Frequently Asked Questions

Here at CheckIt4Andretti, we’re on a mission to wipe out colon cancer. Part of that mission is to  raise awareness and make colonoscopies more accessible to uninsured and underinsured people. Knowing your risk factors, paying attention to any unusual symptoms, and getting screened on time can help reduce your risk of developing colon or rectal cancer. 

While CheckIt4Andretti doesn’t take applications directly, we do work with community partners to make colonoscopies available free of charge. We get a lot of inquiries about how the program works, so let’s take a look at some of the most commonly asked questions to demystify the process.

Q: How do I get a free colonoscopy from CheckIt4Andretti?

A: CheckIt4Andretti provides free colonoscopies to uninsured or underinsured patients who are referred from one of our free or charitable healthcare partners. Patients must meet the participation criteria set by the free or charitable clinic. CheckIt4Andretti does not select patients or determine financial eligibility.

Q: Can I apply directly to CheckIt4Andretti for a free colonoscopy?

A: Due to patient confidentiality concerns and the need for financial information disclosures, CheckIt4Andretti is not able to accept applications directly at this time. If you are uninsured or underinsured and live in an area served by one of our charitable clinic partners, we encourage you to look into getting set up as a patient with them. Our free and charitable clinic partners will ask about your insurance and income status to determine your eligibility. If you qualify based on their guidelines, the clinic will refer you if they find you need a colonoscopy.

Q: Who is eligible for a free colonoscopy from CheckIt4Andretti?

A: Any person who is a patient at one of our partner free or charitable clinic partners is eligible for a free colonoscopy. Healthcare providers at our partner clinics decide if a patient needs a colonoscopy based on age, symptoms or risk factors. The clinic then refers the patient to one of our partner gastroenterology groups to perform the colonoscopy. CheckIt4Andretti is billed by the gastroenterologist.

Q: What can cause a patient to be referred for a colonoscopy?

A: Some of the reasons our free or charitable clinic partners might refer a patient for a colonoscopy include:

  • Being 45 years old or older

  • Positive FIT test (stool test)

  • Family history of colon cancer

  • Symptoms like blood in the stool, change is bowel habits, abdominal pain or weight loss

  • Genetic conditions like familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch Syndrome

Q: Who are CheckIt4Andretti’s free clinic partners?

A: CheckIt4Andretti’s free and charitable clinic partners currently include:

  • The Free and Charitable Clinics of North Carolina are: The Community Free Clinic in Concord, HealthReach Community Clinic in Mooresville, Cook Community Clinic in Huntersville, and Community Care Clinic of Rowan in Salisbury.

Q: Who are CheckIt4Andretti’s gastroenterology partners?

A: CheckIt4Andretti’s gastroenterology partners currently include:

  • NorthEast Digestive Health, Concord, NC

  • Digestive Health Associates – Rowan Diagnostic Clinic, Mooresville, NC

  • Riverview Health Westfield Hospital, Noblesville, In

The Bottom Line

CheckIt4Andretti Charitable Foundation is on a mission to help save lives by raising awareness about the risk factors and symptoms of colorectal cancer. Making colonoscopies more accessible to underinsured and uninsured people who are at risk for colorectal cancer is one step in that mission. Together with our healthcare partners, CheckIt4Andretti is working to wipe out colon cancer one colonoscopy at a time. Remember to get checked for the ones you love. CheckIt4Andretti.

And if you want to join the team in the race to beat colorectal cancer, here are some ways you can help:

Follow our blog

Take the Colon Cancer Risk Assessment

Donate to CheckIt4Andretti

Sign up for our Newsletter

By admin@checkit4, ago

Some Types of Dietary Fiber May Fight Colon Cancer

Some Types of Dietary Fiber May Fight Colon Cancer

Fast Facts:

  • Fiber is an important part of a healthy diet. You should aim to get about 30g of fiber from whole foods every day.
  • Resistant starch is a special type of fiber that helps fight colon cancer by feeding healthy gut bacteria. 
  • Gut bacteria break down resistant starch and turn it into, butyrate, a chemical messenger that signals cancer cells to die. Butyrate also decreases inflammation, feeds healthy bacteria and feeds healthy colon cells.

If you’ve been reading the CheckIt4Andretti blog- or any other source about nutrition- you know that doctors recommend avoiding processed foods, choosing lean proteins and getting plenty of fiber. There’s new research that shows how eating certain types of fiber may actually help fight colorectal cancer by feeding healthy gut cells and causing cancer cells to die off. The best part is that the foods with this type of “fiber,” called resistant starch, are nutritious, delicious and packed with protein. Let’s take a look at types of fiber and resistant starch and how they’re thought to work.

Fiber vs starch: What’s the difference?

Your doctor has probably told you to try to get about 25-35 grams (about 1 ounce) of fiber every day. They’ll also recommend you eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains to reach your fiber goals. Fiber is basically the building blocks of plants. Fiber makes up the rigid structure of plants and also the plant’s cell walls. Animal products don’t contain fiber.

Fiber can be soluble- meaning it dissolves in the fluid of your gut. Soluble fiber makes a gel when it dissolves. This slows down absorption of nutrients, lowers blood sugar and cholesterol. The amazing thing about soluble fiber is that our body can’t digest it, but the healthy bacteria in our gut can.

Some fiber is insoluble– meaning it doesn’t dissolve. It serves as “roughage,” which helps keep bowels moving and regular. Insoluble fiber can’t be digested by our bodies or bacteria. Its job is to make sure that toxins and chemicals pass through the gut quickly so they’re less likely to cause inflammation. The less time toxins are in contact with our gut cells, the less likely they are to cause cancer.

Starch, on the other hand, is a long chain of sugars like glucose. Starch is a way for plants to store excess sugar. Plants break down stored starch and use it as food when they need to. People can digest some types of starch, but other types of starch can’t be digested by people and are considered “resistant.” 

Resistant starch is sometimes called “starchy fiber” or “prebiotic fiber.” Prebiotics feed our gut bacteria. Resistant starch passes through our stomach and small bowel and into the colon where our gut bacteria can digest it.

What’s special about resistant starch?

Resistant starch is found in the same foods as fiber, so it’s sometimes lumped in together. In some ways, it can act like both soluble and insoluble fiber. What’s special about resistant starch is that it is broken down by the gut bacteria into a powerful short chain fatty acid called butyrate.

Butyrate is a powerhouse chemical. It has many positive effects in the gut. Some of the most important effects of butyrate include:

  • Turns on genes that tell cancer cells to die
  • Decreased inflammation in the colon
  • Feeds the healthy cells in the colon (colonocytes)
  • Feeds the healthy bacteria in the colon (microbiome)
  • Butyrate may also block signals that turn normal cells into cancer cells

Can I take a supplement to get enough fiber or resistant starch?

Maybe. There are lots of supplements on the market for fiber (think Metamucil) and resistant starch supplements made from potatoes, corn, lentils and green bananas. Recently, butyrate supplements have also become available.

If you know you’re not going to eat foods with fiber, or if you have a medical condition that keeps you from eating fiber-rich foods, then a supplement might be a good option for you. But most doctors and nutritionists will recommend getting enough of all the types of fiber by eating whole, unprocessed food. Whole foods have other nutritional benefits including vitamins, minerals, polyphenols and phytonutrients that are missing in supplements.

So what foods are best to eat for fiber?

Fiber can be found in most fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Some specific foods to consider to boost the amount of resistant starch in your diet include:

  • Whole grains: oatmeal, whole wheat, brown rice, pearl barley
  • Legumes: beans, lentils, chickpeas
  • Vegetables: artichokes, corn
  • Green bananas, plantains
  • Sourdough bread
  • Dairy: butter, ghee and cheese (limit if you already have high cholesterol)
  • Dark chocolate (>70% very low sugar)

The amount of resistant starch in many of these foods is increased when they are cooked then cooled. For example, cold potato salad and cold rice has much higher amounts of resistant starch than warm dishes containing the same foods. Cooking and cooling causes a chemical change in the starch.

The Bottom Line

Getting enough fiber can play a big role in reducing your risk of getting colon cancer. Insoluble fiber and resistant starch are special nutrients that people can’t digest, but which feed our healthy gut bacteria, turn off cancer pathways, fight inflammation and tell cancer cells to die. Eating whole foods is the best way to get enough fiber, but supplements may help.

Remember, fiber is only one part of a healthy diet. What you don’t eat can be as important as what you do eat. Exercise and a healthy lifestyle- not smoking, getting enough sleep, reducing stress and limiting alcohol- are critical, too. Colon cancer screening is always a vital part of preventing colorectal cancer. Get checked for the ones you love. CheckIt4Andretti.

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To Your Health!

By admin@checkit4, ago

Inaugural CheckIt4Andretti PickleBall Tournament is a Great Success

Inaugural CheckIt4Andretti PickleBall Tournament is a Great Success

CheckIt4Andretti’s Inaugural PickleBall Tournament, in memory of racing legend, John Andretti, was held on March 1 and 2 at the Carolina PickleBall Club in Kannapolis, NC. The tournament’s sponsors included: Republic Airways, title sponsor; Hyde Park Storage Suites, Silver Sponsor; Ginkgo Residential, Silver Sponsor; and Cela Baby, Bronze Sponsor.

Nancy Andretti with volunteer at Pickleball Tournament

150 players signed up to take part in the event and help raise awareness about colorectal cancer- the #2-cause of cancer deaths in the US. Each player received a tournament t-shirt and SWAG bag with items donated by CheckIt4Andretti supporters. Raffle tickets were sold for beautiful gift baskets which were also donated by CheckIt4Andretti supporters. A silent auction featured a Behind the Scenes NASCAR XFinity Experience with Harrison Burton #25, Golf with Ginny and Pat Mackin at the newly designed Peninsula Golf Club, Travel planning with Lisa Livingston at Livingston Travels,  an Andretti Winery and Home 2 Court wine basket, and a deluxe Obagi Skin Care kit from Kim and Scott Crosbie of NextHealth, Nashville.

The Round-Robin Tournament awarded Gold, Silver and Bronze medals to winners of Men’s, Women’s and Mixed Doubles teams based on skill level and age. 

The event was a great success! CheckIt4Andretti wishes to send a heartfelt “Thank You!” to every donor, sponsor, volunteer, vendor, and participant who helped make the inaugural event such a success. You are truly making a difference for people in the community. 

All proceeds from the event will go towards providing free colonoscopies to qualifying members of our community. Mark your calendar for February 28- March 1, 2026 and sign up early!

RESULTS:

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To Your Health!

By admin@checkit4, ago

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Fast Facts

  • Fast Facts:

    • This month marks the 25th anniversary of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. 
    • You can help raise awareness by sharing our blog on social media, taking the Risk Assessment Quiz on our website, signing up for our newsletter and letting your friends and family know you’re getting screened.
    • Getting screened at the appropriate time is a great way to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer. 

The first National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month was launched in 2000

Colorectal cancer can be prevented or cured when it’s caught early. But it’s still the second biggest cause of cancer deaths in the US. One of the main reasons this preventable disease continues to be a major cause of cancer deaths is because people don’t know when they should get checked out. That’s why President Bill Clinton declared March to be National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in 2000.  In the past 25 years, organizations have been raising awareness about Colorectal Cancer. Knowing the warning signs of colon cancer, what to eat, and when to get screened are key to stopping colorectal cancer in its tracks.

How can you make a difference this March?

There are so many ways to make a difference so that you or a loved one don’t become part of the sad statistics. Here are some of the things you can do:

  1. Wear blue on the first Friday of March. Wearing blue is a symbolic way of letting people know you are in the fight against colon cancer. When you wear blue, post on social media.
  2. Sign up for the CheckIt4Andretti Newsletter. Several times a year you’ll receive an email with the most recent updates about the foundation, new posts from our blog, and the latest news about the world of colorectal cancer.
  3. Take the Risk Assessment Tool on our website. This simple series of questions that you answer anonymously online will help you determine your risk of developing colorectal cancer. We have an article that explains how the risk assessment tool can be used most efficiently.
  4. Follow our blog. We read the new studies and update our blog regularly to make the best information on nutrition, exercise, screening and treatments available to our readers.
  5. Learn about the signs of colon cancer. When found early, polyps can be removed before becoming cancerous. And if the polyps have already become cancerous, early detection can lead to a better than 90% cure rate.
  6. Utilize our video resource library. Sometimes watching a short video is a quick way to learn a lot of information. We have collected a variety of videos to raise awareness and share crucial information. We are updating the library regularly so check back often. You’re sure to find something you’ll learn from.
  7. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. You’ll get a lot of information on colorectal cancer and see how we’re making an impact in the community.
  8. Get involved with an awareness raising activity. Fun runs, walks, Pickleball Tournaments and other fun events are scheduled across the country throughout the month of March. Get involved, have fun and raise awareness!

Most importantly, get screened starting at age 45!

The most important way you can make a difference in the colon cancer statistics is to get screened. There are many different screening tests available. The one that you’re most likely to follow through with is the best one for you. Recently the FDA approved a blood test that checks for colon cancer DNA. So whether it’s a colonoscopy, a FIT test, CT scan or blood test, there’s a screening test for you. Remember, the recommended age is now 45 to start screening. If you’re at greater risk, you’ll need to talk to your doctor to decide how early you should begin. If you have any symptoms, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy, no matter how young you are.

The Bottom Line

Colorectal cancer continues to be a major cause of cancer death in the US and around the world. Awareness of screening options, signs of colon cancer, lifestyle choices and treatment options can help improve survival and even prevent polyps from progressing to cancer. Help raise awareness by following the easy steps outlined in this article. Remember, getting checked is the best way to be aware of your colorectal cancer status. Check it for the ones you love. CheckIt4Andretti.

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Take the Colon Cancer Risk Assessment

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To Your Health!

By admin@checkit4, ago

Mom Genes: How Your Family History Affects Colon Cancer Risk

Mom Genes: How Your Family History Affects Colon Cancer Risk

Fast Facts

  • People with a first degree relative (parent, son, daughter or sibling) diagnosed with colon cancer before age 60 have an increased risk of getting colon cancer. The risk can be twice that of someone without relatives diagnosed with colon cancer.
  • Mutations in certain genes that either cause colon cancer, or protect against it, can be passed from parents to their children.
  • If a family member is diagnosed with colon cancer, the doctor may suggest looking for a gene mutation in that person’s DNA. If a mutation is found, the doctor will likely recommend that close family should be tested, too.

More than 1 in 20 people will be diagnosed with colon cancer in their lifetime. About 30% of colon cancer is “familial,” meaning that it’s more likely to run in certain families. But less than 10% of colon cancer is “hereditary,” meaning that it is passed from a parent to a child through a gene mutation. It’s important to know the differences between familial and hereditary because it affects risk, types and frequency of testing, and chances of passing colon cancer genes on to your children. Let’s take a look at how they differ.

Familial vs. genetic colon cancer risk:

Doctors have identified at least 4 gene mutations that are directly linked to developing colon cancer. These “genetic colon cancers” account for about 5-10% of all colon cancers diagnosed every year. If a person has one of these abnormal genes, they are several times more likely to be diagnosed with colon cancer than someone who doesn’t have that gene. If the gene mutation is in a person’s sperm or eggs, they can pass the gene on to their children. This increases the risk that the child will develop a colon cancer syndrome at some point in their lifetime.

On the other hand, colon cancer also “runs in the family” in some cases. Doctors may not be able to find a specific gene mutation in most of these cases. That doesn’t mean the cancer isn’t genetic, it just means that doctors don’t have a test for that gene yet. Colon cancer that runs in the family accounts for about 30% of all cases of colon cancer.

What are the types of genetic colon cancer?

There are many different genetic syndromes associated with an increased risk of colon cancer. Genetic colon cancer mutations can cause cancer in a number of ways:

  • Mutations in tumor suppressor genes (genes which stop cancer from forming)
  • Mutations in proto-oncogenes (genes that promote cancer)
  • Microsatellite mutations (causes the two strands of DNA to mismatch and not repair)

Oncologists (cancer doctors) divide genetic colon cancers into 2 types:

Hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC)

  • Only a single gene from one parent is needed to cause cancer (autosomal dominant).
  • Lynch Syndrome is the most common type of this genetic cancer.
  • People with this type of colon cancer are at increased risk for other cancers including endometrial, small bowel, stomach and ovarian cancer.

Hereditary polyposis colorectal cancer (HPCC)

  • Most forms of polyposis colorectal cancers are autosomal dominant.
  • Familial adenomatous polyposis syndrome is the most common type of this genetic cancer. Other, rarer, syndromes include juvenile polyposis coli, PTEN hamartoma syndrome, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, Gardner syndrome, Cowden syndrome and others.

If I have a bad gene, does it mean I’ll get colon cancer?

The short answer is no. Having the gene for any type of colon cancer puts you at increased risk, but it’s not a guarantee you’ll be diagnosed. For example, people with Lynch syndrome have about a 75% chance of developing colorectal cancer at some point. Compare that to about 5% in the average population. Each genetic syndrome has a different risk of developing into colon cancer. Doctors can assess risk based on the syndrome and other factors. This can help you determine how often to get screened for colon cancer and other associated cancers.

What if colon cancer runs in my family?

Even when people have a strong family history of colon cancer, doctors usually can’t find a genetic mutation. There are probably genes at work that we don’t have a good test for. Other risk factors that family member have in common that can influence the risk of colon cancer include:

  • What you eat: If your family eats a lot of highly processed foods, you’re more likely to eat the same foods which puts you at risk
  • Smoking: Smoking is often a family habit
  • Weight: Obesity runs in families
  • Exercise: Parents who are active tend to have children who are active
  • Environmental exposure: Everyone in a household breathes the same air and drinks the same water for much of the day and night

Keep in mind that these same risk factors also increase the risk for colon cancer in people with inherited cancer risk. 

How does family history affect colon cancer screening?

Colon cancer screening should begin at age 45 for all Americans. If you have an increased risk of colon cancer due to family history or genetics, the recommendations are different. Depending on your set of circumstances, your doctor may suggest:

  • Screening before age 45
  • Screening more frequently than recommended for low-risk individuals
  • Using specific screening tests that allow directly looking at the colon (colonoscopy)
  • Genetic testing on you or your family members
  • Beginning earlier and more frequent screening on close family members
  • Screening for other types of cancer

The bottom line

Colon cancer is one of the biggest causes of cancer deaths. Having a family history of colon cancer or certain genetic syndromes increases a person’s risk of being diagnosed with colon cancer and other types of cancer. Genetic mutations in DNA can allow parents to pass risky genes on to their children. Luckily, not everyone with these gene mutations will go on to develop colon cancer. Early and frequent screening can catch cancer while it’s most likely treatable. Ask your doctor when you should get checked. Get checked for you, get checked for your family. Then CheckIt4Andretti!

Here’s how you can help us wipe out colon cancer:

Follow our blog

Take the Colon Cancer Risk Assessment

Donate to CheckIt4Andretti

Sign up for our Newsletter

To Your Health!

By admin@checkit4, ago