Colorectal Cancer Awareness

Did you know that colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States? The National Cancer Institute suggests that roughly 153,000 Americans received a diagnosis of colon or rectal cancer just last year.

What is colorectal cancer?

Colon cancer is sometimes called colorectal cancer, which combines colon cancer and rectal cancer. Colon cancer is a growth of cells that begins in the large intestine, called the colon. Colon cancer usually affects older adults, but it can happen at any age.

What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?

The majority of patients with early-stage colon cancer have no symptoms. However, some symptoms should prompt further evaluation for colon cancer:

• Prolonged change in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or change in stool caliber)
• Rectal bleeding or blood in stool
• Ongoing discomfort or pain in the abdomen
• Losing weight without trying
• Low blood count or low iron levels on routine labs

What are the causes of colorectal cancer?

Factors that may increase your risk of developing colon cancer include:

• Personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps
• Family history of colon cancer or polyps
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Older age
• Tobacco
• Alcohol
• Not exercising regularly
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Radiation therapy for cancer

Should I get screened for colorectal cancer?

Doctors recommend that people with an average risk of colon cancer should start screening at age 45. Those with a family history of colon cancer should consider starting screening sooner.

What lifestyle changes can I make to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer?

To lower the risk of developing colon cancer:

• Talk to your doctor about when to start colon cancer screening
• Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Limit your consumption of alcohol
• Stop smoking
• Exercise frequently
• Maintain a healthy weight

Contact Galen Digestive Health to schedule an appointment at one of our offices today.