Learn the Truth about Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. It is estimated that nearly 150,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year and over 50,000 die from the disease.
The good news is that when colorectal cancer is found early, the 5-year survival rate is 90 percent; however, only 4 out of 10 are diagnosed at an early stage when it is more treatable.
If you don’t know the truth about colorectal cancer, it may deter you from a screening that could ultimately save your life. Learn the facts today.
- If I had colorectal cancer, I would have symptoms. True or False?
False. Many people have no symptoms of colorectal cancer, which makes it very difficult to detect at an early stage. That is why screening tests are so important. Colorectal cancer is often highly treatable if it is found early. Talk with your doctor to see what screening tests are right for you.
- You should get screened for colorectal cancer starting at age 50. True or False?
True. The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with age. More than 90 percent of all colorectal cancers are found in people who are 50 and older. If you are 50 or over, get screened. If you have a history of colon cancer in your family, talk to your health care provider about getting screened at an earlier age.
- Colorectal cancer can be prevented. True or False?
True. In many cases, colorectal cancer can be prevented. Most colorectal cancers develop from polyps, which are abnormal growths in the colon. Screening tests can find polyps, so they can be removed before they turn into cancer.
- Eating a healthy diet is one way to reduce your risk for colorectal cancer.
True or False?
True. One way to reduce your risk is to eat a healthy diet that includes at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day. Other ways to reduce your risk include maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, limiting alcohol consumption and not using tobacco.
Saint Elizabeth Regional Medical Center has partnered with the American Cancer Society and other local organizations to distribute free Colon Cancer test kits for the month of March. The kits can be picked up in pharmacies throughout Lincoln. Visit www.lancastercrusade.org for more information.