Overview: Did you know you can prevent colorectal cancer? A polyp can take five to 10 years to develop into cancer. With a colonoscopy, doctors can find and remove polyps before they have the chance to turn into cancer.
Did you know colorectal cancer can be prevented? It’s one of the most preventable forms of cancer, and the survival rate is high when diagnosed early through screening.
The American Cancer Society estimates the number of colorectal cancer deaths could drop by half if all Americans were routinely tested. That’s because doctors can now find and remove precancerous polyps, which are abnormal growths in the colon or rectum before they turn into cancer.
How is colorectal cancer preventable?
Most colorectal cancers begin as a growth or polyp on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Polyps are quite common, especially when you get older, and most are noncancerous. However, some types of polyps can change into cancer over time, usually over many years.
A colonoscopy is the best screening exam available to detect polyps. During the screening, your doctor examines the lining of your entire colon to check for polyps or tumors. If precancerous polyps are found, they can be immediately removed during the screening -- before they develop into cancer.
Am I at risk for colorectal cancer?
If you’re at average risk of colorectal cancer, start regular screening at age 45 and maintain regular colon screening. The interval for screening ranges from three to 10 years and depends on your family history and also what was found at the time of your previous colonoscopy. If you’re at increased or high risk for developing colorectal cancer, you may need to start colorectal cancer screening before age 45, get screened more often, and/or get specific tests.
You're at INCREASED RISK if you have:
- One or more family members who’ve had colon or rectal cancer.
- Had certain types of polyps removed during colonoscopy.
- Had colon or rectal cancer personally.
- Undergone radiation for the abdomen or pelvic area to treat cancer.
You're at HIGH RISK for colorectal cancer, if you:
- Have inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis).
- Have certain genetic syndromes
What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer develops with few, if any, symptoms. That’s why colon screening is important and should not be delayed or ignored. Always talk with your primary care provider if you notice any concerning changes with your body. Listen to your gut!
You know your body better than anyone. Symptoms include:
- A change in bowel habits
- A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that’s not relieved by having one.
- Persistent abdominal discomfort, cramping or pain
- Blood in stool
- Weakness and fatigue
- Quick and unintended weight loss
How can I reduce my risk for colorectal cancer?
To reduce your risk of colorectal cancer, make these lifestyle changes:
- Quit smoking: Smoking significantly raises your risk.
- Eat fiber-rich foods: Eat more fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains.
- Limit red/processed meats like beef, pork, lamb and processed meats like bacon and sausage.
- Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight increases your risk.
- Limit alcohol: If you drink, do so in moderation.
- Get recommended screenings for your risk level.
The providers at MercyOne Gastroenterology Care and Surgical Care specialize in diagnosing and treating adults with a wide variety of liver, digestive and intestinal medical conditions.
