March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about colorectal cancer encourage individuals to take proactive steps in safeguarding their health. UnityPoint Health – Meriter offers comprehensive primary care, that includes screening and education about this disease.
Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S. and the second leading cause of cancer deaths, however if caught early, this cancer is highly preventable.
Colorectal cancer refers to cancer that begins in the colon or rectum, parts of the large intestine. It typically starts as non-cancerous polyps, which can develop into cancer over time.
Prevention and Early Screening are Key:
The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is through regular screenings and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Colon cancer screenings are highly effective at detecting early-stage cancer or precancerous polyps, offering the chance for early intervention.
Preventive steps to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer include:
- Maintaining a healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods while limiting processed foods, red meat, and alcohol consumption.
- Regular physical activity: Exercise for at least 150 minutes per week can lower the risk of colon cancer.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Being overweight increases the risk of developing colorectal cancer, particularly in the abdominal area.
- Quitting smoking: Smoking is a known risk factor for colorectal cancer.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends adults begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45, or earlier if they have a family history of the disease or other risk factors.
It’s always best to discuss prevention methods and screening options with your primary care provider, to determine which methods and timelines are best for your health.
Who’s at Risk?
- Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
- Those with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
- People with a family history of genetic conditions such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).
- Those with lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.
While this form of cancer is typically found in people over 50, recent statistics from the American Cancer Society show that colon cancer rates are rising in younger individuals – nearly doubling since 1994, up from 11% to 20% of all cases diagnosed in the U.S. are in people under 50.
This Colon Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage you to take a proactive approach to your health. UnityPoint Health – Meriter offers comprehensive primary care – talk to your primary care provider about your risk for colorectal cancer, ask about the screening options available and determine the right plan for you based on your age, family history, and lifestyle.
