Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the U.S. and the second leading cause of cancer death, but what if you could defeat it before it ever has a chance?

About one in every 24 people will develop colorectal cancer in their lifetime. And most of the time, your genes are not to blame. So what can you do to lower your risk? First, eat a healthy diet that includes lots of fruits, veggies and whole grains.

New research suggests you may also want to up your calcium intake. Researchers found adding 300 milligrams of calcium each day — which is about the amount in a glass of milk — was associated with a 17% lower risk for colorectal cancer.

Get regular screenings. Most major organizations suggest you should start at age 45, but not everyone does. Colonoscopies not only look for cancer, they also can help doctors remove precancerous polyps, preventing future cancer.

Stop smoking and don’t drink in excess. Scientists reported that drinking an additional 20 grams of alcohol daily was linked to a 15% higher risk for colorectal cancer. That’s about the amount in a large glass of wine.

It’s never too soon start.

The number of people who have died from colorectal cancer has steadily decreased since the mid 1980s.

Experts say this is due to more screening and changing lifestyles.

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