In February of 2000, President Clinton officially dedicated March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Over the last two decades, Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month has become a rallying point for the colorectal cancer community. This is a dedicated time of the year where thousands of patients, survivors, caregivers and advocates throughout the country can join together to spread awareness about colorectal cancer by wearing blue, holding fundraising and education events, talking to friends and family about screening, and so much more.
It’s a month that’s near and dear to our hearts, and one that provides a great platform for educating our patients and others about the severity of colorectal cancer.
What Is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the colon or rectum, located at the digestive tract’s lower end. It’s the third most common type of cancer - responsible for nearly 50,000 deaths per year - and it is on the rise, with almost 150,000 new cases expected in 2020.
Colorectal Cancer By The Numbers
Despite its prevalence, there’s a lot that people aren’t aware of when it comes to colorectal cancer. Before engaging in a conversation about the disease with a friend or loved one during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, be sure to familiarize yourself with these important colorectal cancer statistics:
90% of colorectal cancer cases occur in people age 50 or older.
Among cancers that affect both men and women, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States.
It is estimated that approximately 60% of colorectal cancer deaths could have been prevented by regular screenings and early detection.
Despite the benefits of early detection, only ⅔ of adults in the US are up-to-date on their colorectal cancer screening.
Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors
On average, your lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is 1 in 24. Although the disease is more common in patients over the age of 45, it’s important to remember that anyone can be diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and there are several things that can increase your risk of developing the condition.
People with personal and/or family history of polyps or colorectal cancer, as well as those with other chronic GI disorders like ulcerative colitis, IBD, or Crohn’s disease, are more likely to develop colorectal cancer than those without. Genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome, FAP, and MAP also increase your risk.
Symptoms Of Colorectal Cancer
One of the most difficult things about colorectal cancer is that it often doesn’t present with any symptoms, especially in the early stages. That’s why it’s so important for anyone who is at high risk for the condition, as well as anyone age 50 or older, to be vigilant about undergoing their regular colorectal cancer screening. With that being said, here are some colorectal cancer symptoms to be on the lookout for:
A change in bowel habits (this could include diarrhea, constipation, or even a change in the consistency of your stools)
Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool
Anemia
Chronic fatigue
Nausea or vomiting
Persistent abdominal discomfort
Unexplained weight loss
If you’re experiencing any or a combination of the above symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. They will likely recommend a visit to a colorectal specialist.
What You Can Do
Colorectal cancer can be scary, but it’s not a death sentence. The condition is highly treatable when caught in the earlier stages, and there are several ways to minimize your risk of developing colorectal cancer. Make prevention a priority by familiarizing yourself with the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer, knowing your family history, taking steps to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a healthy diet or being active, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting regularly screened; and encourage the loved ones in your life to do the same!
If you’re concerned that you might be showing symptoms of colorectal cancer or simply want to learn more about colorectal cancer prevention, schedule an appointment with our colorectal cancer doctors.