Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Overview

Colon cancer; which includes both colon cancer and rectum cancer — is the second leading type of cancer death in the United States. Just as not smoking goes a long way in preventing lung cancer, regular testing for and removal of colon polyps (small, protruding clumps of cells on the inside wall of the colon) can prevent colon cancer. (1)

What are the facts about Colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the United States.
Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer in both men and women.
Over 148,000 new cases of Colorectal cancer are diagnosed each year.
More then 55,000 people die from Colorectal cancer each year.

What is the recommended testing for Colorectal cancer?
Recommended Prevention Test: Colonoscopy every 10 years beginning at age 50. This is an examination of the rectum and entire colon using a lighted instrument called a colonoscope. Colonoscopy can find precancerous or cancerous groths throughout the colon, including the upper part of the colon.
Recommended Detection Test: FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) annually. This is a test to check for blood in the stool. Studies have proven that this test, when performed every 1 to 2 years in people ages 50 to 80, reduces the number of deaths due to Colorectal cancer by as much as 30%. FIT replaces the older guaiac based tests.

What are the risk factors for Colorectal cancer?
Age, people with Inflammatory Bowel Disease or Crohn's Disease, a personal or family history of Colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps, lack of regular physical activity, low fruit and vegetable intake and low fiber/ high fat diet, obesity, alcohol consumption, and tobacco use.

How can you limit your risk for Colorectal cancer?
Regular testing
Regular exercise
Stop smoking
Talk to your family to see if anyone has a history of cancer
Talk to your doctor about screening options

Colorectal cancer, although one of the deadliest forms of cancer, can be cured if caught early. Please take the necessary steps to get tested regularly for colorectal cancer. Talk to your primary care physician about the option which is best for you.

Reference:
(1) http://www.mayoclinic.com/invoke.cfm?objectID=000E5FAA-7A7E-1B82-95D680E92A0909C9&page=1
(2) http://www.preventcancer.org/colorectal/aboutcolorectal/aboutcolo.cfm