March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. President Clinton dedicated March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in 2000. Since then, awareness for the disease has grown, as well as support for all who have been affected.
Colorectal cancer is a term that includes colon cancers and cancers of the rectum. It is the third most common cancer in both men and women, with about 4.6 percent of men and 4.2 percent of women diagnosed in their lifetime. More than one-third of those diagnosed will die from the disease.
Symptoms of colorectal cancer include changes in bowel habits; rectal bleeding; cramping and abdominal pain; fatigue; weight loss, among others. However, these symptoms can often be caused by something other than cancer. It is best to talk to your physician if you have any of these symptoms.
People who have a family history of the cancer, who are obese or are physically inactive, who regularly use tobacco or alcohol and who have Type 2 diabetes are at an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Anyone over the age of 45 is encouraged to talk with their health care provider about regular screenings for colorectal cancer. There is a variety of screening tests available to help detect the disease, such as colonoscopies.
The American Cancer Society recommends that average-risk adults aged 45 years and older undergo regular screening with either a high-sensitivity stool-based test or a structural (visual) exam, based on personal preferences and test availability. As a part of the screening process, all positive results on non-colonoscopy screening tests should be followed up with timely colonoscopy.
Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding smoking or excess alcohol, and eating more fruits, vegetables, and foods high in fiber can lower your risk for colorectal cancer.
For more information about colorectal cancer, please visit the American Cancer Society website here.
Learn more about Gastrointestinal Oncology at Karmanos here.
To request an appointment at Karmanos Cancer Institute, please choose from the options below.
- Call 1-800-KARMANOS (1-800-527-6266)
- Request Appointment Online – a Karmanos representative will contact you within 24 hours of your request, Monday through Friday.