The exercise challenge
Finding time to be physically active is a challenge for most of us. Between the seemingly endless demands of work and family, it may seem like there just isn't enough hours in the day to squeeze in a brisk walk or a pick-up game of basketball.
But when it comes to the health of your colon and rectum and the rest of your body, you need to make time.
Why exercise matters
Colorectal cancer develops when abnormal masses of tissue - also known as polyps - grow inside the colon or rectum.
While there are a number of reasons why these polyps form, research shows this may occur partly as a result of waste sitting too long in the colon. And there's no doubt that the less active you are, the greater the chance solid waste will languish inside of you, also contributing to obesity, another risk factor.
According to the American Cancer Society, if you engage in moderate-to-vigorous exercise five days a week, typically for 45 minutes each time, it may protect against colorectal and other forms of cancer.
So get moving and protect yourself!