Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine. This cancer typically affects older adults, though it can happen at any age. 

It usually begins as small, noncancerous (benign) clumps of cells called polyps that form on the inside of the colon. Over time some of these polyps can become colon cancers. Polyps may be small and produce few, if any, symptoms. For this reason, doctors recommend regular screening to  help prevent colon cancer by identifying and removing polyps before they turn into cancer. 

If colon cancer develops, many treatments are available to help control it, including surgery, radiation therapy, and drug treatments, such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

Colorectal cancer screening saves lives! Regular screening, beginning at age 45, is the key to preventing colorectal cancer. If you are 45 to 75 years old, get screened for colon cancer regularly. If you are younger than 45 and think you may be at risk of getting colorectal cancer, or if you are older than 75, talk to your doctor about screening. Call your primary care provider today to schedule a colon cancer screening.

Screening Test Options: Several screening tests can be used to find polyps or colorectal cancer, including some that you can do at home. Each test has advantages and disadvantages. Talk to you doctor about the pros and cons of each test, and how often to be tested, to figure out what is right for you. 

Colorectal Cancer Symptoms: Bloody stool, unexplained weight loss, bloating, abdomen pain, diarrhea or constipation, extreme fatigue