March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight one of the most common — and preventable — types of cancer. Despite advances in screening and treatment, colorectal cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. However, early detection through routine screenings can make all the difference in preventing and treating this disease.
Understanding Your Risk
Colorectal cancer affects both men and women, and your risk increases with age, particularly after age 45. However, recent trends show a rise in cases among younger adults, making it more important than ever to be aware of symptoms and screening guidelines. Other risk factors include:
– A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
– A diet high in red or processed meats and low in fiber
– Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
– Obesity and lack of physical activity
– Chronic conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
The Importance of Screening
Routine screening with colonoscopy is crucial because colorectal cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. A colonoscopy is a procedure that examines the entire colon using a thin, flexible tube with a camera and light at the tip of the scope. Patients are asleep for this life-saving exam, and it is an outpatient procedure. The procedure can not only find colon cancer in its early, treatable stage, it can detect precancerous polyps (abnormal growths in the colon or rectum) and remove them before they turn into cancer. Colonoscopy is the gold standard for detecting colorectal cancer and preventing it.
Those of average risk should begin screening colonoscopies at 45 years of age. However, if there’s a family history or other risk factors, you and your doctor should determine the need to start earlier in life.
Recognizing Symptoms
While a screening colonoscopy is the most effective way to detect colorectal cancer early, being aware of potential warning signs is also important. If you notice the following symptoms, do not wait to speak with your doctor.
– Changes in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhea or constipation
– Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
– Unexplained weight loss
– Ongoing abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating
– A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
Take Control of Your Health
Colorectal cancer is largely preventable through regular screening colonoscopy and lifestyle modifications. Adopting a diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables; engaging in regular physical activity; maintaining a healthy weight; and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol can all help lower your risk. Take the initiative to discuss colorectal cancer screening with your health care provider — it could save your life.
by Heather Gerst, D.O.
UPMC Digestive Disease Center
Heather Gerst, D.O., is a gastroenterologist with UPMC Digestive Disease Centers in Williamsport (700 High St.) and Lock Haven (1 Outlet Lane). To schedule an appointment with Dr. Gerst at either location, call 570-321-3454. For more information, visit UPMC.com/DigestiveNCPA.
