March is National Colorectal Cancer month. It’s a disease that many are familiar with and is sometimes called the silent killer. While it’s awkward for some to talk about, this month is the perfect time to bring it up with your doctor to discuss your screening test options.
Colorectal cancer affects your digestive system, specifically the colon and/or rectum. According to the 2019 American Cancer Society statistics it is the second leading cause of cancer death in America. If detected early, colorectal cancers are treatable with high survival rates.
It is recommended that most men and women have their first colorectal cancer screening at age 50. It’s a good idea to talk to your provider and familiarize yourself with the many testing options that would be best for you. The top risk factors to consider for colorectal cancer include:
- Age 50 + years;
- Personal or Family History of colorectal cancer and colorectal polyps;
- Personal History of diabetes or chronic inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.
Behavioral factors that can also impact your risk of colorectal cancer include physical inactivity, obesity, diet, smoking, alcohol, and certain medications. To reduce your risk, take care of yourself with the usual recommendations of regular exercise, balanced diet, and no smoking.
Screening tests are recommended because they have been shown to be helpful in both finding cancers early and decreasing the chance of death from cancer. There are actually several tests or test combinations available to screen for colorectal cancer, including stool tests, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, or rectal exam. They even have easy to order FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) kits that now come right to your home for testing! Check out Cologuard home test kit options.
To learn more about colorectal cancer screening options, please call the Power County Family Clinic at 226-1057 to talk with one of our providers about the best option for you. I hope many of you will take the opportunity to discuss your options further and Power County Hospital District encourages everyone in our community to get the facts about colorectal cancer and get screened.