One in 18 Americans, or six percent of our population, will develop colorectal cancer in their lifetime!
What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer includes cancer of the colon, rectum and appendix. The colon and rectum are responsible for the storage and elimination of the body’s solid waste. They are lined with a covering which, with aging, tends to develop growths, called polyps. Over time, it is these polyps that may become cancerous.
Colorectal cancer occurs in men and women of all ethnic and racial groups. Most colorectal cancers are diagnosed in people aged 50 years or older, with the risk for developing colorectal cancer increasing as we age.
Risk Factors and Symptoms
The exact cause of most colorectal cancers is not yet known, however some of the risk factors that may increase a person’s risk for developing colorectal cancer include:
- A family history (parents, siblings or children) of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer
- A history of Inflammatory Bowel Disease for more than 10 years
Symptoms for colorectal cancer include:
- Blood in or on the stool
- Persistent change in bowel function (diarrhea or constipation)
- Mucous mixed with the stool
- Persistent narrowing of the stool
- Unexplained anemia
- Unexplained weight loss
- Chronic fatigue
As these symptoms can also be associated with other health conditions, it is important to discuss them with your doctor.
Screening
Screening saves lives. The most effective way to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer is to have colorectal cancer screening tests beginning at age 50. Early screening for colorectal cancer may help find the cancer at an earlier stage. Screenings may also help to prevent the cancer from developing with the removal of precancerous polyps.
There are several screening tests currently available to help detect and prevent colorectal cancer. Each test has its advantages and disadvantages. Patients and their doctors are encouraged to discuss the benefits and potential risks associated with each screening option and decide together which test to use and how often to be tested.
For more information on the Colorectal Cancer Screening Program, please call
(818) 507-4120
, or for a free physician referral, please call
(818) 502-2378
.
