Colorectal Cancer facts and awareness

Colorectal cancer, sometimes called colon cancer, is a disease that affects the large intestine or large bowel, which is part of your digestive tract, but can also affect the rectum, which is the passageway that connects your colon to your anus. 
 
The exact cause is not known, but risk factors can include diet, tobacco use, smoking and heavy alcohol use. Some people with a family history of cancer can also be at higher risk of developing the disease. 

Screening is an important way to catch colorectal cancer early, and early detection for this type of cancer is best. You can help prevent your risk for colorectal cancer by following a healthy diet, getting plenty of exercise and sleep, and limiting alcohol and tobacco consumption.  

The CDC recommends, if you’re 45 to 75 years old, get screened for colorectal cancer regularly. If you’re older than 75, talk to your provider about screening, as the recommendations vary on a case-by-case basis. There are 3 tests, some of which can be done from the comfort of home, and your provider can help with finding the right option for you.  

Colorectal polyps and colorectal cancer don’t always have symptoms, especially at first. That is why getting screened regularly for colorectal cancer is so important. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, colon cancer typically affects older adults, though it can happen at any age. It usually begins as small, noncancerous (benign) clumps of cells called polyps that form on the inside of the colon. Over time some of these polyps can become colon cancers. Polyps may be small and produce few, if any, symptoms. For this reason, doctors recommend regular screening tests to help prevent colon cancer by identifying and removing polyps before they turn into cancer. 

If colon cancer develops, many treatments are available to help control it, including surgery, radiation therapy and drug treatments, such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy. 

The Colon Cancer Coalition provides a list of helpful questions to ask your doctor if you should be screened for colon cancer. Here are a few to help you get started with the conversation: 

1. I don’t have any family history of colorectal cancer or of colorectal polyps. Should I still be tested?
2. I don’t know which screening test is appropriate for me. Which test do you recommend and why?
   
3. When and how will I learn the results of the test?

The key to colorectal cancer prevention is screening and a healthy lifestyle. Talk to your provider today if you have questions or want to learn more. 

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