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Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal Cancer occurs in the colon (large intestine or bowel) and rectum, which connects the colon to the anus. It is commonly referred to as colon cancer.

Risk Factors:

• Inflammatory bowel disease
• History of polyps or colorectal cancer
• History of bowel disease
• Family history of colorectal (colon) cancer
• Men and women age 50 and over
• Lack of regular physical activity
• Poor diet (low in fruit, vegetables, and fiber and high in fat)
• Overweight
• Alcohol and Tobacco use

Signs & Symptoms:

• Blood in or on the stool
• A change in bowel habits
• Stools that are narrower than usual
• General, unexplained stomach discomfort
• Unexplained weight loss
• Polyps (a growth of tissue that starts in the lining and grows into the center of the colon or rectum)

Many times polyps are benign (not cancerous) but many are pre-cancerous and can turn into cancer if not removed and treated.

Prevention:

• Increase physical activity
• Eat a low fat high fiber diet (with plenty of fruits and vegetables)
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Avoid Tobacco
• Get yearly screenings
• Report any signs and symptoms immediately