Colon cleansing and cancer prevention

As the world turns "greener" people are looking for new - possibly unconventional - ways to promote health and wellness.

A popular topic of infomercials and magazine articles is the practice of colon cleansing. It is just how it sounds: through products taken orally or a process called colon irrigation, the colon is "cleaned out" or cleansed. This is an old practice that has regained popularity in recent years. Proponents of colon cleansing believe the body is unable to remove toxins in the colon naturally, which lead to health concerns from weight gain to acne or fatigue.

There is little medical research on colon cleansing; however, with the rising trend, current studies are underway. One of the most-asked questions revolves around colorectal cancer, and if colon cleansing is an effective way to avoid this common, and preventable, disease.

Mayo Health System Internal Medicine Physician, Brian Dougan, M.D. advises patients to rely on proven methods of colorectal cancer prevention, namely colonoscopy. He says, "Colonoscopy is the gold-standard screening for colorectal cancer. If detected in its early stages – before symptoms appear – colorectal cancer can be prevented or cured. There is no research pointing to colon cleansing as an effective way to prevent cancerous polyps – don't ignore recommended health screenings because of your choice to practice colon cleansing."

Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon or rectum. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer found in men and women in this county. However, with more people being screened every year, deaths from colorectal cancer are steadily decreasing.

Dr. Dougan says, "Screening for colorectal cancer can make all the difference in preventing one the most common causes of cancer death." Discuss your risk for colorectal cancer and available screening options with your health care provider. Call Winneshiek Medical Center at 563.382.2911 for an appointment.

Pictured above: Mayo Health System Internal Medicine Physician, Brian Dougan, M.D. advises patients to rely on proven methods of colorectal cancer prevention, namely colonoscopy.