Life Saving Facts about Colon Cancer
March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month. Talk with your personal physician about ways to reduce your risk.
Colon cancer is a leading cause of cancer death among Americans even though it is easily preventable. Simple screenings are the key to preventing colon cancer. Screening can detect polyps— growths that doctors can remove before they turn into cancer.
Myth or Fact?
1. Only people at high risk need to be screened: those with a family history of colorectal cancer, people who are overweight, and smokers. ❑Myth ❑Fact
2. There’s no single “right” way to be screened for colorectal cancer. ❑Myth ❑Fact
3. You may need to start testing before age 50 if you have inflammatory bowel disease. ❑Myth ❑Fact
Check Your Answers
1. Myth. All men and women should start colorectal screening by age 50.
2. Fact. There are choices for screening, so talk with your doctor about which is right for you. One option is an annual test to check for blood in the stool. Others include:
3. Fact. Screening before age 50 may be recommended if you or a close relative has had polyps or cancer.
While exact causes of colon cancer are not known, research suggests that certain lifestyle strategies may lower a person’s risk of developing colon cancer and include;
Healthy habits and regular screenings will improve your overall health and are the best ways to protect against colon cancer.
Reprinted from WRHS Health Matters
Posted: March, 02 2010