mybonsecours
frequently Asked Questions
what is colorectal cancer?
Cancer is a group of diseases in which there is abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells in the body. If left untreated, malignant (or cancerous) cells can spread to other parts of the body.
"Colorectal" refers to the colon and rectum, which together make up the large intestine. Colorectal cancer can begin anywhere in the large intestine. The majority of colorectal cancers begin as polyps—abnormal growths—inside the colon or rectum that may become cancers over a long period of time.
how does colorectal cancer affect the U.S. population?
Of cancers that affect both men and women, colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the U.S. In 2006, 139,127 adults were diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and 53,196 adults died of the disease in the United States.†
What causes colorectal cancer, and who is at risk of developing it?
The exact cause of most colorectal cancers is not yet known. About 75% of colorectal cancers occur in people with no known risk factors. Some conditions that may increase a person's risk of developing colorectal cancer include having—
- A personal or family history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer.
- Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease).
- A genetic syndrome such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome). (Just 5% of colorectal cancers are linked to these genetic syndromes.)
what are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?
People who have polyps or colorectal cancer don't always have symptoms, especially at first. Someone could have polyps or colorectal cancer and not know it. If there are symptoms, they may include—
- Blood in or on your stool (bowel movement).
- Pains, aches, or cramps in your stomach that don't go away.
- Losing weight and you don't know why.
- Change in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea).
If you have any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor. These symptoms may be caused by something other than cancer. However, the only way to know what is causing them is to see your doctor.
is there anything I can do to reduce my risk for colorectal cancer?
There is strong scientific evidence that having regular screening tests for colorectal cancer beginning at age 50 reduces deaths from colorectal cancer. Screening tests can find precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon and rectum, and polyps can be removed before they turn into cancer.
Studies have also shown that increased physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight can decrease the risk for colorectal cancer. Evidence is less clear about other ways to prevent colorectal cancer.
Research is underway to determine whether dietary changes may decrease the risk for colorectal cancer. Currently, there is no consensus on the role of diet in preventing colorectal cancer, but medical experts recommend a diet low in animal fats and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grain products to reduce the risk of other chronic diseases, such as coronary artery disease and diabetes. This diet also may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. In addition, researchers are examining the role of certain medications and supplements, including aspirin, calcium, vitamin D, and selenium in preventing colorectal cancer.
Overall, the most effective way to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer is by having regular colorectal cancer screening tests beginning at age 50.
what is cancer screening?
Screening is when a test is used to look for a disease before there are any symptoms. Cancer screening tests, including those for colorectal cancer, are effective when they can detect disease early. Detecting disease early can lead to more effective treatment. (Diagnostic tests are used when a person has symptoms and are intended to find out what is causing the symptoms.)
why should I get screened for colorectal cancer?
Screening for colorectal cancer saves lives. Colorectal cancers almost always develop from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Screening tests can find polyps, so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screening tests also can find colorectal cancer early, when treatment works best and the chance for a full recovery is very high. Having regular screening tests beginning at age 50 could save your life.
is colorectal cancer screening covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans help pay for colorectal cancer screening tests for people aged 50 or older. Many plans also help pay for screening tests for people younger than 50 who are at increased risk for colorectal cancer. Check with your health insurance provider to determine your colorectal cancer screening benefits.
what are the Medicare Preventive Service benefits for colorectal cancer screening?
People with Medicare who are aged 50 or older are eligible for colorectal cancer screening. There is no minimum age for colonoscopy. For more information about Medicare's coverage related to colorectal cancer screening, call the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) (TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048) or visit the Medicare Web site.
