Talking about your gut health isn’t always an easy conversation. March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, what better time than now to talk about getting screened for colorectal cancer? It is a great time to explore your options and get screened. Let's get it done.
In the United States, colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in both men and women, and the second most common cause of cancer deaths when numbers for men and women are combined.
About 70% of people with colon cancer have no family history. A family history of colon cancer, diets that are low in fiber, obesity, smoking, and lack of exercise may increase the risk of developing colon cancer. In recent years, we’ve noticed an alarming trend of people under 40 developing colon cancer. Colon cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms, especially in its early stages. Abnormal growths in your colon, known as polyps, left unchecked, may develop into cancer. This is why it’s important to understand your risk factors and know when you should begin regular screenings.
According to the U.S. Preventative Task Force, everyone over the age of 45 should be screened for colon cancer. If you have a family history of colon cancer, your physician may recommend screenings begin earlier.
Colon cancer symptoms may include a change in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation, blood in your stool, or a feeling that the bowel does not empty all the way. Abdominal pain, aches, or cramps that don’t go away or an unexplained weight loss, could also be signs that a colonoscopy is needed. When caught in the early stages, colon cancer is more treatable in 90% of cases.
There are several ways you can get screened for colon cancer. Simple non-invasive at-home stool tests that detect blood or altered DNA may be used. Other options include flexible sigmoidoscopy, a radiology test (CT colonography), or a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is the best test to screen for colon cancer.
If you’re above the age of 45 or feel you may be at increased risk of colon cancer, talk to your doctor about your screening options.