Are you at Risk for Colon Cancer?

What is Colorectal Cancer?

  • Almost all cases of colorectal cancer also referred to as colon cancer, begin with the development of benign colonic polyps.
  • Polyps form when cells lining the colon grow, divide and reproduce in an unhealthy, disorderly way, producing a growth.
  • These polyps can be cancerous, invading the colon wall and surrounding blood vessels, and spreading to other parts of the body.
  • Colorectal cancer frequently begins without symptoms.

What Causes Colorectal Cancer?

  • The exact causes of colorectal cancer are unknown, but the disease appears to be caused by both inherited and lifestyle factors.
  • Diets high in fat and low in fruits and vegetables – such as those that include red meat, fried foods, and high-fat dairy products – may increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
  • Lifestyle factors –such as cigarette smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, and obesity – also may increase the risk of developing the disease.
  • Genetic factors may determine a person’s susceptibility to the disease, whereas dietary and other lifestyle factors may determine which at-risk individuals actually go on to develop the disease.

How Common is Colorectal Cancer?

  • Colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the United States, and the third most common cancer overall.
  • This year, more than 50,000 Americans will die from colorectal cancer and approximately 131,600 new cases will be diagnosed.
  • Eighty to 90 million Americans (approximately 25 percent of the US population) are considered at risk because of age or other factors.
  • More women over the age of 75 die from colorectal cancer than from breast cancer.

Who Is At Risk?

  • Men and women aged 50 and older are at almost equal risk of developing colorectal cancer.
  • Those who have a personal or family history of colorectal neoplasia (cancer or polyps) are at high risk of developing the disease.
  • Anyone who has a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, is also at high risk.
  • Although the incidence of colorectal cancer appears to be the same among all racial groups, survival rates seem to be lower for African-Americans.

 You are at average risk for colorectal cancer if you:

  • Are age 50 or older and have no other risk factors.

 You are at increased risk for colorectal cancer if you:

  • Have a personal history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps.
  • Have a family history – one or more parents, brothers and/or sisters, or children – of Colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps
  • Have a family history of multiple cancers, involving the breast, ovary, uterus, and other organs
  • Have a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s Disease

Other factors that increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer are:

  • A diet that is low in fiber and high in fat (and high in red meats)
  • A non-active lifestyle

Colorectal cancer often begins without symptoms.  However, there are a number of warning signs; if you are experiencing any of the following conditions please contact our office immediately:

  • Rectal bleeding
  • Cramping pain in your lower abdomen
  • Weight loss without dieting
  • Change in your bowel movements, especially in the shape of the stool (e.g.,  narrow like a pencil)
  • Discomfort in or the urge to move your bowels when there is no need
  • Constant fatigue
  • Blood in your stool (bright red, black, or dark)
  • Frequent gas pains

What You Need To Know…

  • Early detection saves lives – colorectal cancer is preventable, even curable when detected early.
  • If colorectal cancer is found early enough, the patient has more than a 90 percent chance of survival.
  • Colorectal cancer screenings are safe and effective and are now covered by Medicare and an increasing number of other health providers.
  • Several screening methods can be used to detect polyps before they become cancerous, such as fecal occult blood test, colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and barium x-ray. These tests also can detect cancer in its early stages.
  • Colon cancer rates have fallen by 30% over the past decade in people over age 50 due to increased awareness

How Can You Prevent Colorectal Cancer?

  • Know your family history.
  • Maintain a diet low in animal fat and high in fruits, vegetables, and fiber.
  • Exercise regularly.
  • Prevent obesity.
  • Avoid cigarette smoking.
  • Avoid Colon Cancer: Get Screened! Request an appointment today

Info from the American Gastrological Association