ROME, Ga., March 1, 2024 – Colorectal cancer remains the third most common cancer in the U.S. And recent trends show that more and more young people – those between 20 and 49 years of age – are being diagnosed with it. March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, which highlights the importance of early detection and prevention.
Colon cancer can possibly affect everyone, and it is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States.
You're at higher risk if you:
- Have Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
- Are between the ages of 45 to 75
- Have a family history of colon cancer or precancerous polyps
A key tool in diagnosing colon cancer is a colonoscopy. That procedure allows a doctor to examine the inside of the colon to check for abnormalities, such as polyps. During a colonoscopy, a thin, flexible tube (colonoscope) is passed through the rectum into the colon (large intestine). The tube has a tiny camera that allows the doctor to view this area and identify, test or remove any polyps or other abnormalities. Removing polyps helps to prevent colon cancer.
Dr. Joshua Herndon, with Atrium Health Floyd Primary Care Family Medicine in Summerville, said he urges patients to follow the American Cancer Society guidelines.
Because colon cancer keeps showing up in younger and younger people, the American Cancer Society now recommends people start getting a coloscopy when they are 45. Herndon said that recommendation is based solely on age, not risk factors.
A colonoscopy could discover that patient has polyps, which are small clump of cells that forms on the lining of the colon. Most colon polyps are noncancerous, but over time some types can become cancerous. Removing polyps is the best way to prevent cancer from developing.
You should know your family history of polyps or cancers. Knowing what cancers your sisters, brothers, parents, aunts, uncles and grandparents have had is important and may change when and how often you need screening.
There are some common warning signs anyone can look for. Those include blood in your stools, changes in or inconsistent bowel movements or new or unexplained abdominal pain.
Prevention focuses on maintaining good overall health:
- Eat more fiber, which can be protective, so try fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, lentils, quinoa, among others.
- Cook meals at home, and grill or bake foods instead of frying them or using butter.
- Don't be overwhelmed by exercise – it can be as simple as a walk, swimming, yardwork or riding a bike.
- Walk as much as possible – park farther away from the store or your office or take the stairs.
- Plan ahead and pack healthy snacks and fruit when you head out.
- Drink more water.