Get the Facts!
Of cancers affecting both men and women, colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the United States.
Estimated new cases of colon and rectal cancer in the United States in 2013 are:
- New cases: 102, 480 (colon); 40,340 (rectal)
- Deaths: 50,830 ( colon and rectal combined)
Source: National Cancer Institute
Talk to your family and your doctor
You may be at increased risk for colorectal cancer if you or a close relative have had colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer, if you have inflammatory bowel disease or if you have certain genetic syndromes. If you think you are at increased risk, ask your doctor at what age and how often you should be screened.
Screening is recommended for men and women beginning at age 50.
Colorectal cancer often can be prevented. Screening helps find precancerous polyps so they can be removed before they turn into cancer.