Newswise, June 6, 2017 — Colorectal cancer is the second
leading cause of cancer death for men and women in the United States according
to the American Cancer Society (ACS).
In fact, the ACS
estimates that 134,490 people in the United States were diagnosed with
colorectal cancer in 2016, including 70,820 men and 63,670 women. In addition,
the ACS estimates that 49,190 people, 26,020 men and 23,170 women, died from
colorectal cancer in 2016.
According to Mitchell Rubinoff, M.D., Chair, Gastroenterology,
Valley Medical Group, “In order to reduce the mortality rate of this disease,
it is crucial for individuals to be aware of the signs of colon cancer—and not
hesitate to have any cause for concern checked out as soon as possible. Early
detection saves lives!”
What is Colon Cancer?
Often referred to together as colorectal cancer, colon cancer
is cancer of the large intestine (colon), and rectal cancer is cancer of the
last few inches of the colon. It most often begins as precancerous polyps on
the inside lining of the colon. Colon polyps, as defined by the National
Institutes of Health, are growths on the lining of your colon or rectum.
Who is At Risk?
Both men and women are at risk for developing colorectal cancer,
even if they do not have any of the identifiable risk factors such as:• A
family history of colorectal cancer• Being over age 50• Colorectal polyps•
Genetic changes
Early Detection Through Screening Tests
“It is best to catch colorectal cancer before you become
symptomatic. Doctors can actually prevent cancers from ever developing by
removing polyps and they can cure more patients by diagnosing cancer at an
early stage,” explains Dr. Rubinoff.
Possible screening tests for colorectal cancer include stool
tests, colonoscopy, or virtual colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is an outpatient
procedure that is used to try to detect colon polyps and remove them before
they can become cancerous. Your doctor will work with you to decide which test
is appropriate for your individual history and symptoms.
It is also important for individuals who are not showing any
symptoms of colorectal cancer to go for routine screenings. The CDC states that
“The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults age 50 to 75 be
screened for colorectal cancer.
“The decision to be screened after age 75 should be made on an
individual basis. If you are older than 75, ask your doctor if you should be
screened. People at higher risk of developing colorectal cancer should begin
screening at a younger age, and may need to be tested more frequently.”
Signs and Symptoms
There are many potential symptoms of colon cancer and it is
important to note that there is a great deal of overlap between colon cancer’s
symptoms and symptoms of other illnesses. And, while it is possible that your
symptoms may be caused by something else, you should still be aware of what to
look out for and make sure to see your doctor right away if you experience any
of the following symptoms:
• A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or
narrowing of the stool, that lasts for more than a few days• A feeling that you
need to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by doing so• Rectal
bleeding• Dark stools, or blood in the stool (often, though, the stool will
look normal)• Cramping or abdominal (belly) pain• Weakness and fatigue•
Unintended weight loss
Recognizing these symptoms, which are outlined by the American
Cancer Society, is the first step to early detection. Once you alert your
doctor to these symptoms, you may be sent for screening tests to confirm a
diagnosis.
Prevention
You can help to prevent cancer by exercising, eating fresh
fruits and vegetables, and maintaining a healthy weight. Be proactive and take
charge of your health!
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