Wareham Cranberry Cream Ale

Sour American

Living with Lynch

I am learning to live with Lynch Syndrome (HNPCC, hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer), a genetic disorder resulting in a higher rate of certain cancers.

What is Lynch Syndrome?

In other words, colon cancer tends to strike early and often.  Lifestyle changes can help reduce the impact, here are the suggested lifestyle changes:

• Persons with high risk of CRC should consider a low fat diet with limitations concerning red meat, but with bran and rich in cellulose.
• Eat a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables. Choose a variety of fruits and vegetables for your diet. Select whole-grain products when possible.
• Exercise regularly. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. If you haven’t been active, talk to your doctor before you begin an exercise program. Try gentle exercises like walking or biking to get started.
• Maintain a healthy weight. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight. If you need to lose weight, talk with your doctor about your options. Eating less and exercising more can help you lose weight. Aim to lose 1 or 2 pounds a week.
• Colon cancer screening. A colonoscopy exam allows your doctor to see inside your entire colon and look for areas of abnormal growth that may indicate cancer. Removing precancerous growths called polyps can reduce the risk of colon cancer. People with Lynch syndrome typically begin colonoscopy screening every other year starting in their 20s.