March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in Idaho—for both men and women. But it’s very treatable when caught early. There are things you can do to help prevent and detect colorectal cancer, including screening starting at age 50, being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol and don’t smoke!
Don’t ignore your risks or warning signs—talk to your doctor immediately. And if it’s time to get your screening colonoscopy, do it.
Warning signs:
Change in bowel habits; constipation or diarrhea that lasts more than two weeks
Feeling that the bowel does not empty
Bright red or very dark blood in the stool; black stools
Stools that look narrower or thinner than normal
Unexplained weight loss
Abdominal discomfort: frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness, or cramps
Constant fatigue
Unexplained anemia
Talk with your doctor about early colonoscopy if you are at risk; otherwise, begin screening at age 50. Precancerous polyps and early cancers usually give no symptoms, until later. You could have polyps or colorectal cancer and not know it. In addition, most people who are diagnosed with colon cancer have NO family members who have had it. That is why having a screening test is so important.
Risk factors include:
Family history of colorectal or endometrial cancer
Personal history of polyps or colorectal cancer, ulcerative colitis, or Crohn’s disease
Aging (most common over age 50)
Physical inactivity
Obesity
A diet high in red meat can increase your risk; a diet low in animal fat and high in fiber, fruits, and vegetables can reduce your risk.
To schedule your colonoscopy at St. Luke’s Wood River, contact Dr. Brian Berk at (208) 814-8300.
It’s your life.
We help you live it.