March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Cancer of the colon or rectum is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, second only to lung cancer. It is highly preventable, but people often don't know they have it, because they are embarrassed to talk about it.

Preferred Care is committed to helping you and your family lead a healthier life. Learning a little more about colorectal cancer can make it easier to talk with your doctor about your questions or concerns.

Who is at risk?

Colorectal cancer occurs in men and women of all racial and ethnic groups. Approximately 75% occur in people with no known risk factors. Here are other important facts about who is at risk for developing colorectal cancer.

• Most colorectal cancers – more than 90% – are diagnosed in people aged 50 years or older. The risk increases with age.
• A family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps increases a person’s risk.
• Certain diseases of the intestines, including inflammatory bowel disease (Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease), can increase the risk.

Lifestyle factors that may contribute to increased risk of colorectal cancer include lack of regular physical activity, low fruit and vegetable intake, a low-fiber and high-fat diet, obesity, alcohol consumption, and tobacco use.

Regular colorectal cancer screenings, exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce your risk of being diagnosed with it.

Regular screening saves lives

The most effective risk reduction tool is to have routine screening tests. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), an independent panel of medical experts, strongly recommends routine screening for colorectal cancer for all adults age 50 and older. Colorectal cancer can be prevented by removing precancerous polyps or growths, which can be present in the colon for years before invasive cancer develops.

Review the limitations and risks of the available colon cancer screening options with your doctor. These include:

• The fecal occult blood test (FOBT), which checks for hidden blood in three consecutive stool samples.
• In flexible sigmoidoscopy exams, physicians use a flexible, lighted tube (sigmoidoscope) to visually inspect the interior walls of the rectum and part of the colon.
• In colonoscopy exams, physicians use a flexible, lighted tube (colonoscope) to visually inspect the interior walls of the rectum and the entire colon.
• The double-contrast barium enema test comprises a series of X-rays of the colon and rectum.

The frequency of testing depends on the method. There is no single test that is best for all patients or clinical practice settings.

Get regular exercise and maintain a healthy weight

Studies have shown that regular moderate exercise, such as a daily hour-long walk, reduced the risk of developing colon cancer by almost 50%. Levels were also reduced by as much as 28% in people who jogged 30 minutes or who walked for an hour every day.

Research also suggests that eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may help prevent cancer and other diseases in general. These foods can also help you maintain your weight. In addition, whole grains from breads, cereals, nuts and beans may also provide protective effects.

For more information

• Visit the Colorectal Cancer section of the Preferred Care online Health Encyclopedia for in-depth information about symptoms, treatment, and prevention.
• Log on to the Colorectal Cancer: Early Detection section of the American Cancer Society Web site.
  
  • Frequently Asked Questions About Colon Cancer
  • Five Myths About Colon Cancer
  • Watch the American Cancer Society's national TV campaign that uses humor to raise awareness about getting tested for colorectal cancer.

Posted: February 2006