The single most damaging factor in relation to the development of bowel cancer is meat consumption. Specifically too much red meat and too many processed meat products such as salami, bacon and sausages.

Try having at least one completely meat-free day a week and keep red meat consumption to a minimum. You can substitute red meat for chicken, game or fish but also keep an eye on your portions.  Research indicates that diets rich in fish may be even more effective than completely vegetarian diets in preventing bowel cancer.

Eating less meat means there is more room on your plate for vegetables! Dark green, leafy vegetables such as kale, cabbage and broccoli are particularly beneficial. Whole grains (eg wholemeal bread and brown rice), beans and lentils are a great source of dietary fibre, which is what keeps your digestive system moving, so opt for those rather than white bread and rice.

Alcohol is a known risk factor for bowel cancer and in particular has been linked to early onset bowel cancer affecting people under the age of 50. Early onset bowel cancer can be more aggressive and harder to treat and unfortunately diagnoses in this age group in the UK are on the increase. Restrict your alcohol intake when you drink to the advised number of units and have days where you don’t drink.

If you find you are unable to restrict the amount of alcohol you are drinking seek help from your GP or support groups such as AA.

Smoking doesn’t just affect the respiratory system; the chemicals in cigarette smoke enter the bloodstream and reach every part of the human body, including the gut. Stub it out!

Being significantly overweight has been implicated as a cause of bowel and other cancers. Even if you are not overweight but have an inactive lifestyle your risk increases so try to fit in a minimum of 20 minutes exercise a day.

Vigorous housework, gardening and brisk dog walking all count!