Why is screening for colorectal cancer important?
Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the United States and the second leading cause of death from cancer (healthfinder.gov). It affects all racial and ethnic groups and is most often found in people ages 50 and older.
The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is to get screened regularly starting at age 50. There are often no signs or symptoms of the disease – which is why it’s so important to get screened.
To increase awareness about the importance of colorectal cancer screening, the Family Health Clinic is proudly participating in Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.
What exactly is a screening?
Screening is a way to look for cancer before someone exhibits any symptoms. A series of tests are used to check for different types of cancer. Studies have shown that some colorectal cancer screening tests help to find cancer at an early stage and may decrease death from the disease.
There are five different tests that are used to screen for colorectal cancer:
- Fecal occult blood test
- Sigmoidoscopy
- Colonoscopy
- Virtual colonoscopy
- DNA stool test
While these may sound intimidating, our health professionals are here to walk you through the best options for you and explain the processes at every step of the way.
The Family Health Clinic provides the fecal occult blood test and also provides referrals for colonoscopies.
If you are over the age of 50, you have the highest risk of colorectal cancer. You may also be at higher risk if you are African American, smoke, or have a family history of colorectal cancer.
Taking Steps to Prevent Colorectal Cancer
There are steps that everyone can take to prevent colorectal cancer. Read through the list below:
- Get screened starting at age 50.
- Encourage your family members and friends over age 50 to get screened.
- Quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke.
- Get plenty of physical activity and eat healthy.
To make an appointment and find out more about how you can be screened for colorectal cancer, call (800) 321-5043.
Information for this post was provided by Healthcare.gov and Cancer.gov.
