Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon or rectum. It is similarly common in men and women. An expected 146,970 people will be diagnosed in 2009, and an expected 49,920 people will die from the disease. With suggested screening, this cancer can be prohibited (by removing polyps before they become cancerous) or detect early, when it can be extra easily and successfully treated.
Colorectal Cancer At Risk
- Men and women age 50 and older
- People who make use of tobacco, are heavy or are sedentary
- People with a individual or family history of colorectal cancer or benign (not cancerous) colorectal polyps
- People with a individual or family history of inflammatory bowel disease, such as extensive standing ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
- People with a family history of inherited colorectal cancer
Colorectal Cancer Risk Reduction
- Be physically active and exercise regularly.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Eat a high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans and whole grains.
- Consume calcium-rich foods like low-fat or skim milk.
- Limit red meat consumption and avoid processed meats.
- Don’t smoke.
- Don’t drink alcohol excessively.
Colorectal Cancer Early Detection
If you be at average risk for colorectal cancer, start having normal screening at age 50. If you are at better risk, you may need to start regular screening at an previous age. The most excellent time to get screened is before any symptoms come into view. Use this guide to assist you discuss screening option with your health care specialized. Consider one of the following:
Screening intervals for tests that find pre-cancer and cancer:
- Colonoscopy: Every 10 years
- Virtual colonoscopy: Every 5 years
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Every 5 years
- Double-contrast barium enema: Every 5 years
Screening intervals for tests that mainly find cancer:
- Fecal occult blood test (FOBT): Every year
- Fecal immunochemical test (FIT): Every year
- Stool DNA test (sDNA): Ask your health care experts
Any abnormal effect of a virtual colonoscopy or double-contrast barium enema, as fine as a positive FOBT, FIT or sDNA test, should be follow up with a colonoscopy.
Colorectal Cancer Symptoms
Early stages of colorectal cancer do not usually have symptoms. Advanced disease may cause:
- Rectal bleeding or blood in or on the stool
- Change in bowel habits or stools that are narrower than usual
- Stomach discomfort (bloating, fullness or cramps)
- Diarrhea, constipation or emotion that the bowel do not empty completely
- Weight loss for no apparent reason
- Constant fatigue
- Vomiting
Colorectal Cancer Treatment
Surgery is the most general treatment, When the cancer has increase, chemotherapy or radiation therapy is prearranged before or after surgery.
