Colon Cancer
Colon Cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and women. Last year approximately 140,000 Americans were diagnosed with colorectal cancer and over 50,000 of those individuals died from their colon cancer. Colon Cancer does not discriminate; rather it affects men and women of all races. It is a silent killer…it often has no symptoms until it is in a late in an incurable stage.
Screening
When caught early, Colon Cancer is over 90 percent curable. In early stages, it can be detected and treated through a relatively easy and safe procedure called a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is a test that allows your gastroenterologist or surgeon to look inside your colon and rectum in order to detect colorectal polyps, or cancer.
90 percent of Colon Cancer occurs in people ages 45 years old and over and therefore a colonoscopy is recommended for any person over the age of 45.
People who should be screened before the age of 45 include:
- Anyone with a family history of colon cancer
- Anyone with worrisome symptoms such as change in stools, abdominal pain and/or blood in stools
Your physician will help determine if and when a colonoscopy is appropriate for you.
Colonoscopies save lives. We encourage you to contact your primary care doctor if you have any worrisome symptoms, and/or to discuss the scheduling of your colonoscopy if 45 or older.
Health Topics: