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Early Detection Is Key to Fighting Colorectal Cancer 
The month of March is dedicated
to colorectal cancer
awareness. By learning about
colorectal cancer, you are helping
fight a disease that affects one out of
18 Americans.* According to the
American Cancer Society, colorectal
cancer is the third most common
cancer and the second leading cause
of cancer death for both men and
women in the United States.** With
screening tests, colorectal cancer can
be caught early, increasing the
survival rate for those diagnosed with
the disease.Know the Risks Colorectal cancer refers to cancer of the colon or rectum. While the exact cause of colorectal cancer is unknown, the following risk factors may increase the chance that a person will develop this disease. Your age. The odds of developing colorectal cancer increase after age 50. Over 90 percent of people diagnosed with colorectal cancer are age 50 or older.*** Family history. Having close relatives (parents, siblings or children) who have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer increases your risk; therefore, earlier and more frequent screenings may be recommended by your physician. Personal history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer. A polyp is a growth that develops on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Some polyps may become cancerous. If you've been diagnosed with colorectal cancer in the past, recurrence is possible. Other risk factors include unhealthy eating, lack of exercise, smoking and bowel disorders such as Crohn's disease. Although some risk factors, such as your age and family history, cannot be avoided, other factors are within your control. Choosing to follow a healthy lifestyle may help lower your risk of developing colorectal cancer. Watch for Symptoms Colorectal cancer may not present symptoms in its earliest stages. However, as the cancer progresses, the following symptoms may develop:
You should consult a physician about being screened for colorectal cancer if you experience any of these symptoms. If you or a loved one is at risk for developing colorectal cancer or exhibits symptoms of the disease, don't hesitate to discuss your concerns with a physician. With colorectal cancer, early screenings can translate into saved lives. For more information about colorectal cancer, visit the Web sites for the American Cancer Society or Colon Cancer Alliance.†
Free Colorectal Screening Kits
Free colorectal screening kits are available, while supplies last, at the San Jacinto Methodist Hospital Cancer Center's Radiation Therapy Department located at 4021 Garth Road, Suite 105, Baytown, 281-420-8557. You may come by the Cancer Center or call us and we will mail you a kit. |
