Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States, second only to lung cancer. National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, observed in March, was created in 2000 to increase awareness of the importance of regular screening to save lives.
Colorectal cancer is a term used to refer to malignant tumors developing in the colon or rectum. Symptoms include constipation, thin stool, stomach cramps, bloody stool, nausea and vomiting, unexplained weight loss and gas and bloating. Major risk factors for this disease include age, personal history of colon polyps (small growths in your intestines), personal history of inflammatory bowel disease and family history of colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common, yet preventable, cancers. To help protect yourself from this disease follow these prevention tips:
• See your healthcare provider at the first sign of colorectal cancer symptoms
• Receive regular colorectal cancer screenings starting at age 50.
• Eat a balanced diet
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Maintain an active lifestyle
• Learn your family medical history
• Don’t smoke
Colon polyps and early cancer have no symptoms, making regular screenings extremely important. Early detection allows physicians to stop the progression of and treat the disease.
In observation of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Marion Regional Healthcare System will be distributing colorectal kits to the public. Each kit will include a noninvasive test, which can be completed in the privacy of your own home.
Kits can be obtained on March 10, 12, 17 and 19 from noon-1 p.m. in A Women’s Place in the Marion County Medical Center.
Colorectal cancer is preventable with the proper screenings. Waiting for the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer could mean a diagnosis made too late for a cure. For information, call (843) 431-2000.
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