MAY 11, 2005Provided by RealAge.com

Ditch the Drive

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Dodge a dangerous killer with a small change in work plans.

Colon cancer is among the most common forms of cancer in many developed countries. But research shows that people who cycle or walk to work have significantly lower rates of colon cancer. If you can't find an active way to commute to work, lace up your walking shoes for a brisk stroll at lunch.

Inactivity and obesity are two major risk factors for colon cancer. Finding an active way to commute to work is one way to battle both. If you can't walk or ride your bike to work, be sure to squeeze in at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week. You may reduce your risk of colon cancer further with the right diet. Eating a diet that is low in fat -- especially saturated fat from animal sources -- and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help protect against colon cancer. In addition to obesity and a sedentary lifestyle, other risk factors for colon cancer include a family history of the disease, advanced age (50 years or more), smoking, excess alcohol consumption, diabetes, ulcerative colitis, and colon polyps. Follow your healthcare provider's advice regarding colon cancer screenings.

RealAge Benefit: Exercising regularly can make your RealAge as much as 9 years younger.

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