Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Why should you get a screening?

Colorectal cancer is the #2 cancer killer in the U.S.

A screening test is used to look for a disease when a person doesn’t have symptoms. Colorectal cancer (colon cancer) almost always develops from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. A screening test can help find precancerous polyps, so that they can be removed before they turn into cancer. There is also a chance to detect cancer early, when treatment tends to work best.

When should you start getting screenings?

About 90% of new cases of colorectal cancer occur in people who are 50 or older.

If you are 50 or older, it’s recommended to get a screening for colon cancer. After 50, it’s recommended to get screened at regular intervals based on your doctor’s recommendation.

What are the risk factors?

The risk of colon cancer increases as you get older, however, there are other risk factors including:

• Personal or family history of colon cancer or polyps

• Inflammatory bowel disease

• Genetic syndromes such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch Syndrome

There are also many lifestyle factors that could contribute to an increased risk of colon cancer including:

• Lack of physical activity

• A diet low in fruit and veggies

• Low fiber and high fat diets

• Overweight and obesity

• Alcohol

• Tobacco

If you believe you are at an increased risk for colorectal cancer, speak with your doctor to determine when you should begin screening, which tests are right for you, and how often you should be tested.

For more information, visit www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal

*Information provided by the CDC

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