Can You Lower Your Odds of Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer — or cancer of the
colon or rectum — is second
only to lung cancer as the
leading cause of cancer-related
deaths in the U.S. Fortunately, this type
of cancer can be treated successfully if it
is found early.
Anyone can get colorectal cancer, but more than nine out of 10 cases occur in adults ages 50 and older. Besides age, other risk factors include:
- a history of polyps, or benign growths that occur in the colon and rectum;
- a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, especially before the age of 60; and
- a personal history of ovarian, uterine or breast cancer.
Early Detection Offers Hope
“Screening offers the single best method of discovering colorectal cancer at a treatable stage,” said Laura Brenzel, director of cancer services. The American Cancer Society recommends that people ages 50 and older undergo a screening — such as a colonoscopy — for polyps every 10 years. People who face a high risk for colorectal cancer may be advised to undergo earlier and/or more frequent screening.When Symptoms Occur
While colorectal cancer often causes no symptoms in its early stages, warning signs may include:- persistent diarrhea;
- constipation;
- narrow stools or blood in your stool;
- weight loss with no obvious cause;
- vomiting;
- constant fatigue;
- abdominal gas;
- bloating or cramps.
To set up a screening colonoscopy, talk to your physician or call the Colon
Cancer Screening Program at (502) 587-4108 .
