Colorectal Cancer Awareness in March

March is designated as Colon Cancer Awareness Month. A study in the Journal of American Medical Association indicates that colorectal cancer has become the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among individuals under 50 in the U.S.

The American Cancer Society reports a steady annual increase of about 1% in colon cancer rates since 2005, even as mortality rates for other common cancers like breast, lung, and brain cancers have decreased.

It’s noteworthy that one in 24 people will face a colon cancer diagnosis at some point in their lives. Each year, the diagnosis affects approximately 150,000 Americans.

Dr. Nathan Merriman, MD, from Intermountain Health, emphasizes, “Colon cancer is a serious disease, but if caught early, it can be highly treatable with a 90% survival rate.” Conversely, the survival rate diminishes significantly if the cancer is diagnosed in its later stages. Emily Van Komen, a nurse practitioner at the same institution, adds, “Colonoscopies are crucial for saving lives.”

Interestingly, around 75% of colon cancer cases arise in individuals with no family history, indicating a lack of awareness about risks for many.

Van Komen further highlights a troubling trend: individuals born around 1990 face double the risk of colon cancer and quadruple the risk of rectal cancer compared to those born around 1950. While the reasons for this increase are multifaceted, factors such as diet, tobacco, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, obesity, and metabolic diseases likely contribute.

Screening Recommendations

“For those at average risk, screening should begin at age 45. Colonoscopies are considered the best method for screening as they can also remove pre-cancerous polyps immediately,” Van Komen advises.

According to experts, a concerning one-third of individuals eligible for screening actually don’t undergo testing. This oversight allows colon cancer to progress, sometimes without symptoms until it’s more advanced.

Merriman urges families to discuss any history of colon cancer or related conditions like polyps or Crohn’s disease. “It’s crucial for those with such histories to consult their doctors about earlier screenings,” he states.

Recognizing Symptoms

If you experience the following symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional:

• Rectal bleeding or blood during bowel movements, which may be visible in stool or on toilet paper.
• Low iron levels or anemia.
• Changes in bowel habits.
• Chronic abdominal pain.
• Unexplained weight loss.

“Don’t ignore signs like rectal bleeding by attributing them solely to hemorrhoids. It’s important to discuss these symptoms with your doctor to rule out serious conditions,” Merriman advises.

Ultimately, regular screenings are the most effective means of preventing colon cancer, which is particularly notable as the disease can be preventable and treatable.

Possible Lifestyle Adjustments

• Keep a healthy weight.
• Limit intake of red and processed meat.
• Steer clear of ultra-processed foods.
• Exercise regularly, aiming for around 150 minutes each week.
• Avoid tobacco products.
• Moderate alcohol consumption.

It’s also beneficial to stay hydrated and maintain a fiber-rich diet to promote digestive health and prevent strain.

Scheduling a colonoscopy remains the most effective approach for screening. It’s a dual-purpose procedure, as it not only detects but also prevents colon cancer by enabling the removal of precancerous polyps during the screening process. For scheduling, visit the Colon Cancer Screening page.

Individuals at average risk may also qualify for at-home stool-based screening kits, and if results are positive, a colonoscopy is typically recommended. More information is available on the On-Demand Services page.