March was officially designated National Colon Cancer Awareness Month in 2000 by President Clinton in an effort to bring awareness to the public about colon cancer and to take steps toward prevention.
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States and the second leading cause of death from cancers that affect both men and women. Every year, about 140,000 Americans get colorectal cancer and more than 50,000 people die from it. Colorectal cancer affects people in all racial and ethnic groups, and is most common in individuals 50 and older. More than 90% of colorectal cancers occur in people who are 50 years or older. But the good news is, if all people over the age of 50 got regular screenings, 6 out of 10 deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented.
Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine (colon), which is the lower part of your digestive tract. Most cases of colon cancer begin as small, noncancerous (benign) clumps of cells called polyps. Over time, these polyps can become colon cancer.
In the early stages of colon cancer, many people experience no symptoms. That is why screening is so important. Guidelines generally recommend colon cancer screenings begin at age 50, but your doctor may recommend more frequent, or earlier screening, if you have other risk factors, such as family history of the disease. Your physician will determine what type of screening is best for you.
Signs and symptoms may include:
- A change in your bowel movements (diarrhea or constipation)
- Stomach pain, aches, or cramps that do not go away
- Unexplained weight loss
- Weakness or fatigue
Although these symptoms may be caused by something else, it is important that you consult with your healthcare provider.
Lifestyle changes you can do to reduce the risk of colon cancer include:
- Eat healthy and include fruits, vegetables and whole grain products.
- Avoid a diet high in saturated fats, red meat, and processed foods.
- Exercise
- Drink alcohol in moderation
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Get screenings, as directed by your physician.
With today’s screening tools, colorectal cancer can be detected before it poses a real threat. You can also significantly reduce your risk of developing this cancer through simple diet and lifestyle changes.
References:
- CDC Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Healthfinder.gov
- National Institute for Health