Colorectal cancer health tips

90% survive colorectal cancer with early detection

According to the American Cancer Society, 90% of new colorectal cancer cases occur in adults ages 50 and older.* The good news is that, when it’s found in early stages, there’s a 90% survival rate.†

Even though it doesn’t yet have any kind of pink-ribbon awareness following, colorectal cancer (or cancer of the colon, bowels and/or rectum) is the third most common type of cancer.

What’s more alarming is the fact that 90% of all colorectal cancer cases are in adults ages 50 and up.*

The silver lining? Colorectal cancer has a 90% survival rate when it’s found in early stages. With survival rates this high, preventive screenings work. Screenings can find problems that can be treated before cancer develops.

Talk to your doctor about scheduling your appointment today.

On the road to fighting and surviving colorectal cancer, the key is early detection. Be proactive and get to know the symptoms. Ask yourself these questions to know if you’re at a higher risk:

• Am I 50 years of age or older?
• Do I have frequent diarrhea, constipation, gas pains or cramps?
• Do I frequently feel full, bloated or unrelieved after a bowel movement?
• Do I have narrower stools than usual or blood in my stool?
• Have I experienced unexpected weight loss?

Colorectal cancer may be one of the most common forms of cancer, but it’s also one of the most preventable. If you’re 50 or older, follow this simple three-step formula to keep your chances low:

1. Get regular screenings and have growths removed if present.
2. Eat a healthy diet that’s low in fat and high in calcium and fiber.
3. Stop smoking to reduce your risk of growths in the colon.

*The American Cancer Society, Colorectal Cancer Facts & Figures.

†National Cancer Institute, SEER Stat Fact Sheet: Colon and Rectum.

This material is provided for informational use only and should not be construed as medical advice or used in place of consulting a licensed professional. You should consult with an applicable licensed professional to determine what is right for you.