The Japanese dishes, sushi and sashimi, have gained popularity in the U.S. with many people enjoying these meals containing raw fish. As with the consumption of any raw meat, there are health risks that can result in an infection, especially certain parasites. Most people in the U.S. are aware that eating raw or undercooked beef or pork can lead to a parasitic infection, but there is also that risk with raw fish and seafood. The fish tapeworm, Diphyllobothrium latum, is picked up by eating raw or undercooked freshwater fish or fish that reproduce in freshwater rivers, such as salmon.

Colon cancer is the third most common cancer for both men and women, but when detected early, it can be effectively treated.