Get the Facts: Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers. It is a cancer that can be prevented with early screening. It is also highly treatable when detected early.
What is colorectal cancer?
Colorectal or colon cancer is a disease where cells grow uncontrollably in the colon or rectum. The colon is the large intestine, and the rectum is where the colon connects to the anus. Sometimes, growths, called polyps, form in the colon or rectum. These can turn into cancer if they are not removed.
What are the symptoms of colon cancer?
- Abdominal pain, aches, or cramps
- A change in your bowel movements (going to the bathroom)
- Blood in your poop
- Diarrhea, constipation, or feeling like you are not able to empty your bowel all the way
- Weight loss
Some people don’t have any symptoms, so it is important to get a screening test.
When should I get a screening test?
Adults ages 45 to 75 should be screened for colon cancer. They should continue to receive screenings regularly. Some people with certain risk factors may need screening before age 45.
What are the risk factors for colon cancer?
Risk factors for colon cancer include:
- Inflammatory bowel disease, like Crohn’s disease
- Personal or family history of colon cancer or polyps
- A genetic condition
What is the screening test?
Several types of tests can be used to find polyps or cancer. Talk to your doctor about which test is right for you.
A colonoscopy is one of the most common tests. During a colonoscopy, a doctor uses a flexible tube with a light and lens to look at the colon and rectum. The doctor is also able to remove any polyps.
What can I do to prevent colon cancer?
Getting screened is one of the best things you can do. Most colon cancers start as polyps, which can be found and removed during certain screening tests. Other research has shown that staying active, staying at a healthy weight, eating healthy, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding tobacco can help.
Regular screenings are important for finding and removing potential problems before they turn into cancer.
Sources:
https://colorectalcancer.org/basics/facts-and-statistics
https://www.cdc.gov/colorectal-cancer/about/index.html
https://www.cdc.gov/colorectal-cancer/screening/index.html
https://www.cdc.gov/colorectal-cancer/risk-factors/index.html
