Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon or rectum. Each year, more than 136,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer and more than 50,000 die of the disease. With certain types of screening, this cancer can be prevented by removing polyps (grape-like growths on the wall of the intestine) before they become cancerous. Several screening tests detect colorectal cancer early, when it can be easily and successfully treated.
Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the United States and the second leading cause of death from cancer. Colorectal cancer affects all racial and ethnic groups and is most often found in people ages 50 and older. The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is to get screened regularly starting at age 50, as people over age 50 have the highest risk of colorectal cancer. There are often no signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer – that’s why it’s so important to get screened. You may need to get tested before age 50 if colorectal cancer runs in your family. You may also be at higher risk if you are African American, smoke, or have a family history of colorectal cancer. If you are age 50 to 75, get tested regularly for colorectal cancer. All it takes is a visit to the doctor to have a special exam (called a screening).
Risk Factors
You might be at an increased risk for colorectal cancer if you:
• Are age 50 or older
• Smoke or use tobacco
• Are overweight or obese, especially if you carry fat around your waist
• Are not physically active
• Drink alcohol in excess (especially if you are a man)
• Eat a lot of red meat, such as beef, pork or lamb, or a lot of processed meat, such as bacon, sausage, hot dogs or cold cuts
• Have a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or benign (not cancerous) colorectal polyps
• Have a personal or family history of inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s Disease
Prevention
• Be physically active for at least 30 minutes at least five days a week
• Maintain a healthy weight and waist size
• Don’t smoke. If you do smoke, quit
• Limit alcohol to no more than one drink per day if you’re a woman or two drinks per day if you’re a man
• Eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains, which are good sources of fiber
• Eat less red meat and cut out processed meat
• Get screened according to guidelines
How often should I get screened?
How often you get screened will depend on your risk for colorectal cancer. It will also depend on which screening test is used. There are different ways to test for colorectal cancer. Some tests are done every 1 to 2 years. Other tests are done every 5 to 10 years. Your doctor can help you decide which test is right for you and how often to get screened. Most people can stop getting screened after age 75. Talk with your doctor about what’s right for you.
