Colorectal Health and Cancer
More than 140,000 Americans were diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2013. The good news? Advanced screening methods make it easier to discover this cancer in its early, most treatable form.
Incidence of colorectal cancer depends on individual risk factors, which can include a history of irritable bowel disease, Type 2 diabetes, racial background and a number of inherited syndromes you have no control over. You do control other risk factors, though, such as smoking, obesity and lack of physical activity. It’s important to talk with your doctor about how your lifestyle and family history factor into your risk for colorectal cancer.
People at average risk should start regular screening at age 45, according to the American Cancer Society. Your doctor may recommend routine screening or increased vigilance because of your risk factors.
There are multiple screening techniques that allow doctors to detect cancer or the presence of precancerous polyps, from which colorectal cancer can grow.
- Fecal occult blood tests and fecal immunochemical tests involve taking stool samples to identify traces of blood, which can be a sign of cancer or polyps.
- Colonoscopy allows doctors to examine the entire colon and rectum. This is the only type of screening that allows doctors to remove polyps as they are found.
- Sigmoidoscopy enables doctors to view the rectum and lower colon for signs of cancer and polyps.
- Computed tomography colonography and double contrast barium enemas can accurately find polyps before they develop into cancer.
Many symptoms of colorectal cancer can also be caused by other conditions, such as hemorrhoids, infection or inflammatory bowel disease, according to the National Institutes of Health. Because colorectal cancer is more easily cured when detected early, you should see your doctor if you experience any of the following:
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Blood in your stool, bleeding from your rectum or dark stool
- Constipation, diarrhea or narrow stool lasting more than a couple of days
- Persistent feeling that a bowel movement is necessary, even after having one
- Unexplained weakness or fatigue
If your doctor finds cancer, there are several commonly used treatment options that can be highly effective, depending on how advanced the disease is. Surgery is the most common form of treatment, and your doctor may also incorporate chemotherapy, radiation or a number of investigational therapies.
The best type of colorectal screening depends on your family medical history and lifestyle. Speak with your doctor about your risk factors and what screening is right for you.
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