Preventing Colon Cancer Through Awareness
Colorectal cancer is among the most preventable cancers through screening, yet many people don't get screened. Understanding the importance of colonoscopy and other screenings can literally save your life.
Why Colon Cancer Is Preventable
Unlike many cancers, colorectal cancer often begins as precancerous polyps that take years to develop into cancer. Screening can find and remove these polyps before they become cancerous.
Risk Factors
Age: Risk increases significantly after 45.
Family History: Having relatives with colon cancer or polyps increases risk.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis increase risk.
Lifestyle Factors:
- Diet high in red and processed meats
- Low fiber intake
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Smoking
- Heavy alcohol use
Genetics: Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis significantly increase risk.
Screening Options
Colonoscopy: The gold standard. Examines entire colon and allows polyp removal during procedure.
- Start at age 45 (earlier with risk factors)
- Every 10 years if normal
Stool Tests: Less invasive options including:
- FIT (fecal immunochemical test) - annually
- Stool DNA test - every 3 years
Virtual Colonoscopy: CT imaging of colon, every 5 years.
Discuss with your doctor which option is right for you.
Symptoms to Watch
Don't ignore:
- Blood in stool or rectal bleeding
- Change in bowel habits lasting more than a few days
- Unexplained weight loss
- Abdominal discomfort
- Feeling that bowel doesn't empty completely
- Weakness or fatigue
Many of these symptoms have other causes, but evaluation is important.
Prevention Strategies
Diet: High fiber, plenty of fruits and vegetables, limited red meat and processed foods.
Exercise: Regular physical activity reduces risk.
Maintain Healthy Weight: Obesity increases risk.
Limit Alcohol: If you drink, moderate consumption only.
Don't Smoke: Smoking increases colorectal cancer risk.
Screening: Most important prevention—find and remove polyps before they become cancer.
Overcoming Screening Reluctance
Many people avoid colonoscopy due to:
Preparation Discomfort: The prep is the worst part, but newer preps are easier than before.
Embarrassment: Medical professionals perform these procedures routinely. Your health is more important than temporary embarrassment.
Fear of Results: Finding problems early gives you the best chance for treatment.
Time: The procedure itself is quick (30-60 minutes), and you typically need one day for prep and recovery.
PASOR's Role
Our health education programs emphasize colon cancer screening. Community physicians including gastroenterologists provide guidance.
Learn about cancer screening importance and how early detection saves lives.
Take Action
If you're 45+ and haven't been screened, schedule an appointment. If you have risk factors, discuss earlier screening with your doctor.
Your colon health is in your hands. Get screened.