Katie Couric says she follows 3 practices to prevent colon cancer

Katie Couric told Business Insider she emphasizes a mostly whole, plant-based diet, regular exercise, and routine screenings to lower cancer risk, and she recently had a colonoscopy that removed three polyps.

Katie Couric has long spoken about colorectal cancer after her husband, Jay Monahan, was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in 1997 and died the following year. She has campaigned for greater awareness as cases among younger adults have risen. Couric said she follows three main practices: a mostly whole, plant-based diet, regular exercise including Pilates and strength work, and keeping up with screenings. She also noted a personal history of breast cancer with subsequent remission in 2022. Key facts: - Jay Monahan was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in 1997 and died at age 42 the following year, which prompted Couric's advocacy. - Couric describes three preventive habits: prioritizing whole plant-based foods, maintaining regular physical activity, and adhering to recommended screenings. - She reported a recent colonoscopy that found and removed three polyps. - The American Cancer Society recommends starting average-risk colonoscopy screening at age 45; at-home stool tests like Cologuard are available as additional screening options. Summary: Couric's comments highlight concern about increasing early-onset colorectal cancer and her emphasis on diet, activity, and screening as personal measures. Undetermined at this time.