Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in the United States,
according to the
American Cancer Society (ACS). But there are steps you can take to help protect yourself.
Regular screening and healthy lifestyle choices can help prevent the disease
altogether. If cancer does develop, screening can help detect it early,
when it is much easier to treat effectively.
Most colorectal cancers start as abnormal growths, called polyps, on the
lining of the intestines. These polyps can be removed before they develop
into cancer. Many early colorectal cancers can also be treated successfully.
According to the ACS, survival rates drop dramatically once cancer spreads
to other parts of the body.
Screening is the best tool for finding polyps or colorectal cancer early.
The ACS recommends that people at average risk for colorectal cancer start
screening at age 45. Some effective options include:
Fecal occult blood test every year.
Stool DNA test every three years.
Colonoscopy every 10 years.
Your doctor can help you decide which screening program is right for you.
If you have risk factors, such as a family history of colorectal cancer,
polyps or inflammatory bowel disease, your doctor may recommend that you
start screening earlier or be screened more often.
Your doctor can also help you decide when to stop screening. For people
ages 76 to 85, the decision to screen for colorectal cancer should be
an individual one. And people over age 85 don't need screening at all.
Limit intake of red meat, such as beef and lamb, to no more than 18 ounces
(cooked weight) a week.
Avoid processed meat, such as hot dogs, ham, bacon and sausage.
Know the risks of alcohol. Colorectal cancer has been linked to drinking alcohol.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Be physically active for at least a half hour a day.
Research continues on the role of several nutrients in colorectal cancer
prevention, including vitamins, folate, calcium and magnesium. Some pain
relievers are also under study, including aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen. According to the ACS, the
risks of these medicines outweigh the benefits for people at average risk
of colorectal cancer. But research continues in people at high risk.
The ACS recommends consulting your doctor before you take any medicines
or supplements for cancer prevention.
Don’t Ignore Symptoms
Some colorectal cancer can't be prevented, but it can be treated. The ACS
says to check with your doctor if you have:
Diarrhea, constipation or another change in bowel habits for more than
a few days.
Cramping or steady stomach pain.
Blood in your stool or from your rectum.
Having symptoms doesn't necessarily mean you have cancer, but they should
always be investigated. Getting them checked could ease your mind, or
it could save your life.
If you are eligible for a colonoscopy, talk to your health care provider
about scheduling this important screening.
Colonoscopy, Family PracticeView Profile
