Colon Cancer: Preventable - Treatable - Beatable
Colon Cancer: Preventable - Treatable - BeatableDuring March -- Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month -- we remind every individual the importance of CRC screenings. CRC is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. If CRC screenings were universal, beginning at age 50 for those at average risk and earlier for those at increased risk, with timely removal of pre-cancerous polyps, the mortality from CRC would be drastically reduced.
Colon cancer is a disease that strikes an equal number of men and women, primarily those over age 50, but can be found in younger individuals who may have a family history of colon cancer, or other digestive diseases.
More than 90% of colon cancer deaths can be prevented with timely removal of pre-cancerous polyps. Colon cancer is one of the few types of cancer that can actually be prevented, which makes it all the more important to consider your risk for the disease and take steps to be tested at the appropriate time.
The American Cancer Society, American College of Gastroenterology, have all published screening guidelines. Please consult your physician to determine the best test for you. Physicians at St. Francis Hospital who perform colonscopy procedures include: Dr. D. Ross Billiter, Dr. Joseph Blaser, Dr. Brian Quarton and Dr. Bruce Weber.
Since the risk of developing colon cancer increases with age, everyone over age 50 should be screened with at least one of the following tests: a fecal occult blood test, a flexible sigmoidoscopy, or a colonoscopy.
Most early cancers produce no symptoms, which is why screening tests are so important. Some of the symptoms listed can indicate the presence of colon cancer, so see your family physician if any of them persist for more than a couple of weeks:
- a change in bowel habits
- rectal bleeding
- blood in or on the stool
- stools that are narrower than usual
- frequent gas pains, general stomach discomfort
- a loss of weight for no apparent reason
- constant tiredness
Remember: colon cancer is preventable, treatable and beatable!
#####
|
