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Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer generally refers to cancer of the large intestine or rectum. It’s the third most common cancer in men and women, causing close to 60,000 deaths each year. Early detection is essential to successful treatment outcomes.

Colorectal cancer signs & symptoms

  • Change in bowel habits or stools that last more than a few days
  • Blood (either bright red or very dark) in the stool
  • Constant abdominal discomfort, such as pain, bloating, fullness or cramps
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Constant fatigue
  • Chronic nausea or vomiting

Who’s most at risk?

  • Adults over 50.
  • People with a family history of the disease, especially a close relative like a parent or brother.
  • People with a personal or family history of colon polyps.
  • Jews of Eastern European descent.
  • African-Americans. Scientists aren’t sure how race plays a role, but there’s no doubt it does.
  • Those with Crohn’s colitis. Ulcers formed by this bowel disease can become cancerous.
  • Adults with a diet high in fat and animal products. Choose plant-based foods instead, with meals rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes. Aim for at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
  • Overweight adults and/or those who don’t regularly exercise.
  • Smokers.
  • Heavy alcohol drinkers.
  • Those who’ve already experienced colorectal cancer. Even if the disease was completely removed, it can form again in other parts of the colon.

Prevention

  • Eat a well-balanced, low-fat diet loaded with fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
  • Don’t smoke.
  • Exercise at least 30 minutes, four days a week.
  • Commit to the preventive exam schedule your doctor recommends.

Screening guidelines

Colonoscopy is the most thorough and effective way to screen for this disease. It allows a physician to examine the entire length of your large intestine. And, if a polyp is found, the doctor can immediately remove it. The procedure is generally recommended once every 10 years, starting at age 50. African-American men should start at age 45. Those with multiple risk factors may start at an earlier age, or be screened more often.

Other preventive tests your physician may recommend include flexible sigmoidoscopy, virtual colonoscopy, fecal occult blood test or double-barium enema. Your doctor will decide how often you may need these exams.

Page last updated on Sep. 29, 2008