March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

By Daniel Sadler M.D., Chairman of the Colon & Rectal Cancer Institute at Somerset Medical Center’s Steeplechase Cancer Center

Colorectal cancer, cancer that starts in the colon or rectum, is the second most common cancer among men and women, affecting one in every 20 Americans. These numbers may seem disheartening, but with continuous improvements in prevention, early detection and treatment methods, more than 1 million people in the U.S. count themselves as survivors of this disease. Colorectal cancer, often referred to as colon cancer, is up to 90 percent preventable through regular screening. This March, in recognition of  Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, take a proactive approach, by making sure you and your loved ones understand the risk factors associated with this disease and the preventative measures you can take to detect concerns early and maximize your health. 

• Age is important — As you get older, your risk of developing colorectal cancer increases. More than 90 percent of cases occur in people who are over the age of 50, which is the recommended age to begin a regular screening process, whether or not symptoms are present. 

• Pay attention to history — If you’ve previously had colon cancer, you are at risk of developing it again. Additionally, your risk may also increase if you have a history of other cancers, including ovarian, uterine or breast cancer.  Don’t forget to consider family history too. If any of your close relatives,
  including parents or siblings, have had colon cancer, your risk of developing
  the disease is increased.

• Lead a healthy lifestyle — A diet high in red and processed meats, and low in whole grains, fruits and vegetables has been associated with the development of colon cancer. Also, as with most cancers, smoking can greatly increase your risk. Begin sticking to a healthier diet, quit your smoking habit and work regular exercise into your daily routine to lower your risk.

• Early detection is crucial — The majority of colon cancers develop in polyps, which are abnormal growths that typically protrude from the inner wall of the colon or rectum. Detecting and removing polyps before they present a concern helps to prevent your risk of developing this cancer.

• Follow recommended screening guidelines — Colon cancer is one of the most detectable and, if found early enough, most treatable cancers. However, many people avoid getting screened because they’re scared of what the outcome may be, uncomfortable with the procedure, believe they’re too young to get tested, or aren’t aware of the importance. It’s recommended that men and women over the age of 50 should have a colonoscopy every 10 years, to monitor for colon cancer.

Since symptoms of colon cancer typically don’t appear until the cancer is in its advanced stages, and they can often resemble symptoms associated with other diseases, colon cancer can go undetected, limiting patients’ treatment options.  Early detection is the first and best defense against colon cancer, and Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect opportunity to speak with your doctor about your individual situation to best determine what screening routines and lifestyle changes to consider.   

Dr. Daniel Sadler is Chairman of the Colon & Rectal Cancer Institute at Somerset Medical Center.