Colorectal cancer, or colon cancer, continues to impact hundreds of thousands of Americans every year, but the prognosis has improved significantly in recent decades. This is because a greater awareness of screening and prevention has enabled doctors to catch and treat colorectal cancer at early stages.
March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, and once again, every American is asked to step up and help spread the word about colon cancer prevention.
How to help
- Put colon cancer at the forefront – Talk about it, wear a blue ribbon, encourage family members to get screened, and post information on your social media.
- Share your story – If you have been touched by colon cancer, either through a positive test, treatment, or that of a family member, share your story.
- Give your time – Help raise money for research and marketing by hosting a fundraiser on your social media, or volunteer at a local organization distributing materials about colon cancer, prevention and treatment.
- Get screened – Lead by example, learn about screening options, and schedule yours.
The facts about colon cancer
- About 140,000 men and women, almost equally, are diagnosed with colon cancer each year.
- Only about two-thirds of Americans are screened according to the schedule recommended by the CDC.
- More than 90% of colon cancer is identified in people 50 and older.
- Early-stage colon cancer rarely causes symptoms.
Screening for colon cancer
Colon cancer screening is recommended beginning at age 50. Screening may include stool tests, which are noninvasive and can be done at home with a kit, or both virtual and standard colonoscopies. A colonoscopy is the best way to detect and remove polyps and precancerous growths, and less invasive tests that produce abnormal results will usually dictate the need for a standard colonoscopy. If your colonoscopy is normal and you are at low risk for developing colon cancer, your screenings can be set for every 10 years.
At Stark Women’s Center, our doctors will review your health and your family history to determine whether you are at risk for colon cancer and arrange screening that is appropriate for your health history. Don’t delay in scheduling your colonoscopy. Early detection is your best chance of beating this disease. Call today for an appointment.