Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States, but it’s also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. That’s why regular screenings are critical for both women and men over the age of 45.
Colorectal cancer happens when cells in the colon (the longest part of the large intestine) and rectum (the end of the digestive system) form clusters known as polyps. These cells grow in the lining of the colon and rectum. They are often benign, but can, over time, become cancerous.
It may take years for the polyps to turn into cancer, and they typically don’t cause symptoms. That’s why getting screened for colon cancer is so important. When polyps are caught early and removed, they are less likely to turn into cancer.
Screening recommendations
Most men and women should begin screening for colon cancer at age 45 and get tested every 10 years. You may need to test earlier or more frequently if you:
Have a family history of colorectal cancer Have inflammatory bowel disease including Crohn’s disease Have had colorectal cancer Have a history of polyps (especially if they are large or several were found in a previous screening) Have a hereditary condition, like Lynch syndrome, which can increase the risk of forming polypsTypes of screening
There are two main kinds of screenings used for colorectal cancer detection. One is a stool-based test. For this, you will take a sample of your stool and send it to a company that tests for signs of cancer. These companies typically look for DNA changes and/or blood in that stool, both of which signal the development of colorectal cancer. These tests should be done every three years.
The second test, a colonoscopy, is performed by your doctor in a hospital or outpatient facility. During a colonoscopy you are sedated, and your doctor will insert a thin tube with a camera into your rectum. The doctor will check for polyps, which they can remove during the procedure. A colonoscopy will be done every 10 years unless your doctor recommends them more frequently.
Talk to your personal physician about when to start screening and what type of screening is best for you.
Prevention is the best medicine
Taking care of your health, in general, may help you reduce the risk of getting all types of cancer.
Maintaining a healthy weight and eating a nutritious diet are two ways to lower your risk. Limiting your intake of processed and red meats is one place to start. Both have been shown to increase the risk of colorectal cancer. You can replace those foods in your diet with nutrient-dense vegetables, fruits and whole grains.
Smoking and alcohol intake have also been shown to increase your risk of getting cancer. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about ways to stop. If you drink alcohol, try to limit your intake to one drink a day for women and two a day for men.
Getting regular exercise is another good habit for cancer prevention. The American Cancer Society recommends 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75-150 minutes of vigorous activity each week. More is better to lower your cancer risk.
Being aware of colorectal cancer symptoms and talking to your doctor right away if you have them may also help catch polyps or cancer in its early stages. Polyps don’t often cause symptoms, but if they grow you may notice:
Blood in your stool Bowel changes like constipation, diarrhea or feeling like your bowels aren’t fully emptying when you go to the bathroom Lingering abdominal pain, bloating or gas Weight loss for no reason Unusual, persistent fatigue or weaknessWhile there is no guaranteed way to prevent colorectal cancer, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and talking to your doctor early about the type of screening that’s right for you can go a long way toward reducing your risk. For more information, visit us at kp.org/sandiego.
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