MARCH IS NATIONAL COLON CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

COLORECTAL CANCER
Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon and/or rectum. In 2006, 148,610 people were estimated to be diagnosed with the disease, and men and women are diagnosed in nearly equal numbers. Of those diagnosed, 55,170 estimated to die from colorectal cancer. However, it is one of the most preventable cancers, because it can develop from polyps that can be removed before they become cancerous.

PREVENTION
• Get regular screening tests
• Exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy weight.
• Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Don’t smoke, and don’t drink alcohol excessively.
RISKS
• Men and women age 50 and older
• People with a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or benign (not cancerous) colorectal polyps
• People with a personal or family history of inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
• People with a family history of inherited colorectal cancer

SYMPTOMS
In the early stages, there may not be any symptoms.
Later, these symptoms may appear:
• Rectal bleeding
• Blood in or on the stool (bright red)
• Change in bowel habits
• Stools that are narrower than usual
• General stomach discomfort (bloating, fullness
• and/or cramps)
• Diarrhea, constipation or feeling that the bowel
does not empty completely
• Frequent gas pains
• Weight loss for no apparent reason
• Constant tiredness

EARLY DETECTION
Men and women at average risk should begin regular screening at age 50. If you are at greater risk, you may need to begin regular colorectal cancer screening at an earlier age. There are many options for screening: Colorectal cancer screening is not going to be the highpoint of anyone’s day, but the tests are simple and generally painless. The five tests your physician may recommend include:

1. Fecal Occult Blood Test – A simple chemical test that can detect hidden blood in the stool. The test can be taken in the privacy of one’s home or sent to a laboratory for result. Recommended testing is every year.

2. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy – A visual examination of the rectum and lower portion of the colon, performed in a doctor’s office. This test may be somewhat uncomfortable, but is not painful. Recommended testing is every five (5) years.

3. Double Contrast Barium Enema or Barium X-Ray – An x-ray examination of the rectum and entire colon performed in the hospital. Your doctor will give you an enema containing white dye or barium followed by an injection of air. The barium outlines the intestine and enables the doctor to take x-rays of the lower intestine. Recommended testing is every five (5) to ten (10) years.

4. Colonoscopy – A visual examination of the rectum and entire colon performed in the hospital. If polyps are found, they can be removed during this procedure. The exam can be uncomfortable but is not painful. The doctor will give you medication to make you relaxed and sleepy. Recommended testing is every five (5) to ten (10) years, depending on your personal and family history.

These tests are as simple as they sound, and well worth the peace of mind you will have knowing that you are going to lead a long and healthy life.

Cumberland Medical Center’s Endoscopy Department is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) and staffed with caring, qualified professionals. For more information on colorectal cancer, please call the CMC Endoscopy Department at (931) 459-7222.