6 TexasHealthHuguley.org Here’s good news when it comes to colorectal cancer: Making a few small changes in your lifestyle and getting screened on time could lower your risk of this preventable disease. “Of course, screening is key,” says Amy Thomas, FNP-C, with Texas Health Medical Associates Gastroenterology Group. “But some risk factors for colorectal cancer are modifiable.” 1 Get some daily movement. Getting moderate or vigorous physical activity lowers your risk for colorectal cancer and polyps, which are growths inside the colon that can change into cancer. “Take a good brisk walk around the neighborhood,” Amy says. “It doesn’t have to be very strenuous.” 2 Put more produce on your plate. Limit red and processed meats while eating more fiber-rich fruits and veggies. COLORECTAL CANCER 6 tips to help reduce your risk Make an appointment Visit TexasHealthHuguley.org/ Thomas. Looking for a trusted healthcare provider for you and your family? Texas Health Medical Associates (THMA) experts deliver care that‘s personal and focused on the whole you. The healthcare network serves northern Texas with 71 providers, and five more are joining this year. THMA offers a wide range of diagnostic services and care: Primary care. They have family medicine providers, internal medicine physicians, pediatricians and geriatricians who offer wellness exams and treat everything from colds to complex chronic conditions. Specialty care: Cardiology, gastroenterology, women’s health (including obstetriciangynecologists and certified nurse midwives), cardiothoracic surgery, general surgery, sports medicine, behavioral health and rheumatology are among the specialties available to you. Schedule a visit Get connected with a provider at TexasHealthHuguley.org/Providers. Connect to the care you need Expert primary and specialty care “No matter the specialty, THMA providers care for the whole person,” says Melissa Williams, LVN, Practice Administrator. “For example, if a patient visits a gastroenterologist and has high blood pressure, the provider will ensure they are connected with their primary care provider to address it. This collaborative, whole-person approach is a hallmark of THMA’s care philosophy.” With THMA, you can expect to receive compassionate care that is tailored to your unique needs and guided by their faith-driven mission, Melissa adds. 3 Commit to quit. That’s right—smoking boosts the risk of colorectal cancer, too. 4 Avoid alcohol. If you choose to drink, limit your intake. 5 Watch your weight. Regular exercise and portion control can help tip the scales in your favor. 6 Get screened. Ask your doctor about colorectal screening when you turn 45, or earlier if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease. A colonoscopy can detect polyps in the colon that can be removed before they might change into cancer. “Colorectal cancer is 100% preventable, and it’s treatable when caught earlier,” Amy says.
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