March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to take action against one of the most common forms of cancer. Did you know the lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is about 1 in 24 for men and 1 in 26 for women? Your personal risk may be higher or lower depending on your risk factors.
According to the American Cancer Society, while incidence rates continue to drop in older adults because of screening and lifestyle-focused prevention, they are increasing in people younger than 50 years of age. Anyone at average risk is recommended to start routine screening at age 45. Read on to learn about what you can do to take action against this disease.
Discuss your risk factors with your primary care provider.
Risk Factors include:
- Being overweight or obese
- Having type 2 diabetes
- Having a diet high in red meats and processed meats
- Smoking
- Moderate to heavy alcohol use
- Family history or personal history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer
- Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis
- Personal history of radiation to the abdomen or pelvis area
- Personal history of genetic syndrome such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome)
By identifying your risk factors, your primary care provider can inform you of your risk level, what screening options are best for you, and how often you should screen. Ready to schedule an appointment? Find your clinic’s contact information.
Know your screening options.
The 3 main types of colorectal cancer screening tests are blood-based tests, stool-based tests, and visual exams. Each have benefits and risks that you should discuss with your provider. A blood-based screening test requires a blood sample taken in a clinic and sent to a lab for testing. The blood is tested for DNA changes that may indicate the presence of cancer or pre-cancer cells. Stool-based tests analyze stool (feces) to find signs of colorectal cancer or polyps. Visual exams, look at the inside of the colon and rectum for abnormal areas that might be cancer or polyps. The American Cancer Society notes that if you choose screening through a test other than colonoscopy, any abnormal test results should be followed up with a timely colonoscopy. Learn more about colorectal screening options.
Visit your provider if you experience possible signs and symptoms, including:
- A change in bowel habits that lasts for more than a few days (diarrhea, constipation, narrowing of the stool)
- A feeling of needing to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by having one
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Cramping or abdominal pain
- Weakness and fatigue
- Unintended weight loss
To learn more about colorectal cancer and screening, check out the resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) below.
- Colorectal Cancer Screening Saves Lives
- What Can I Do to Reduce My Risk?
- What Should I Know About Screening?
- Colorectal Cancer Screening Stories
About the Logan Health Cancer Program
Should you ever need cancer treatment, rest assured that you are in good hands. The cancer program at Logan Health is certified as a Comprehensive Community Cancer Program from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. This designation demonstrates that the quality of care provided is on par with top cancer centers nationwide.
Learn more about Logan Health’s Cancer Program and Digestive Health Services.