March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and the good news is that it’s easier than ever to be screened for colorectal cancer. Screening tests are available that you can complete at home. It is best to talk to your doctor about the best screening method. Your doctor will consider your family history, genetics, and medical condition.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults aged 45 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer. The Task Force recommends that adults aged 76 to 85 talk to their doctor about screening.
So what is colorectal cancer? Colorectal cancer is a disease in which cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control. According to cancer.org, excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States.
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), Colorectal polyps (abnormal growths in the colon or rectum that can turn into cancer if not removed) and colorectal cancer don’t always cause symptoms, especially at first. Someone could have polyps or colorectal cancer and not know it. That is why getting screened regularly for colorectal cancer is so important.
If you have symptoms, they may include:
- A change in bowel habits.
- Blood in or on your stool
- Diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty all the way.
- Abdominal pain, aches, or cramps that don’t go away.
- Unexplained weight loss
Since March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness month, many areas throughout the U.S. are offering free screening. Don’t wait!
Header image source: Forbes
That’s a good reminder. I’ve had the take-home test sitting on my desk for months. The thought of doing the test is disturbing but it does save lives.