Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Among other diseases, March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. According to major researchers, about 1 in 2 people will receive a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. Colon cancer is one of the top cancers that people die from. Colonoscopies are shown to greatly reduce the number of deaths from colon cancer. During a colonoscopy, a gastroenterologist uses a scope to remove polyps and suspicious tissue formations for the colon. Unfortunately, some people who are too scared to get screened may develop colorectal cancer.

What is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon or the large intestine. Usually, these cancers first start out as a poly or a small mass of tissue. There are many symptoms of colon cancer. The Mayo Clinic defines these as, “changes in your bowel habits, including diarrhea, changes in stool consistency. There is rectal bleeding in your stool, with persistent abdominal discomfort, such as cramps, gas, or pain. There is a feeling that your bowel isn’t completely empty, weakness, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.” If you think you may have any of these symptoms, please consult a GI physician immediately.

The risk of colon cancer is dependent upon lifestyle, and genetics. Cancer can be hereditary in many cases. There are two forms of gene mutations including hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer, and familial adenomatous polyposis. Unfortunately, Americans are at risk for colon cancer from their western diet. This includes a diet that has many fats and not enough fiber. People who are overweight, have diabetes, are smokers, alcoholics, or are currently being treated with radiation therapy are the groups with the highest risk of developing colorectal cancer.

Final Thoughts

Do you know someone who has/ or had colon cancer? Please celebrate Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month by spreading awareness to others you may know.