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early detection can save your life.
Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon or rectum. It is equally common in men and women. In the US, an estimated 142,570 people will be diagnosed in 2010, and an estimated 51,370 people will die from the disease. In Virginia, an estimated 3,370 people will be diagnosed and 1,300 people will die from the disease. With recommended screening, this cancer can be prevented (by removing polyps before they become cancerous) or detected early when it can be more easily and successfully treated.
am I at risk?
While everyone should pay attention to their body, their family history and any external signs that may indicate a need to call your doctor, there are some groups that are at higher risk.
- Men and women age 50 and older
- People who use tobacco, are obese, or are sedentary
- People with a personal family history of colorectal cancer or benign (not cancerous) colorectal polyps
- People with a personal family history of inflammatory bowel disease such as long-standing ulcerative colitis, or Crohn’s disease
- People with a family history of inherited colorectal cancer
how can I reduce my risk?
It’s important to communicate with your physician any changes you may have experienced or any family history that would necessitate a change in your current course of treatment. It’s also important to keep on track with scheduled screenings and appointments. In addition to the care you receive from your physician, you can take steps to reduce your risk factors.
- Be physically active and exercise regularly
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat a high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans and whole grains
- Consume calcium-rich foods like low-fat or skim milk
- Limit red meat consumption and avoid processed meats
- Don’t smoke
- Don’t drink alcohol excessively
early detection can save your life
If you are at average risk for colorectal cancer, start having regular screenings at age 50. If you are at greater risk, you may need to begin screening at an earlier age. The best time to get screened is before any symptoms appear. Use this guide to help you discuss screening options with your health care professional. Consider one of the following tests:
for identifying pre-cancer and cancer:
- Colonoscopy – every 10 years
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy – every five years
tests that mainly find cancer:
- Fecal occult blood test (FOBT)- every year
- Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) – every year
