We Can Protect Ourselves from Colorectal Cancer by Getting Screened

We can protect ourselves from colon cancer; a cancer that affects people of all genders, races, and backgrounds. The recent deaths of well-known actors James Van Der Beek and Catherine O’Hara from colorectal cancer (CRC) are a sad reminder that this disease can affect anyone. 

Screening can protect you from colon cancer by finding and removing abnormal growths, called polyps, before they become cancer --- before cancer starts. There are several ways to screen for colon cancer, and you can choose which test is best for you. Screening tests are 1) colonoscopy every 10 years and 2) stool-based tests at home every 1-3 years, depending on the test. Talk to your doctor about what will work for you.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to encourage Alabamians to get screened for this disease that is the second-leading cause of death in Alabama. While most cases affect people over age 50, there has been a disturbing increase in cases among younger people. The good news is that most CRC deaths can be prevented, and the disease is often treatable, with a 5-year survival rate of 91 percent for localized cases versus 14 percent for late-stage cases. 

If you have symptoms, don’t ignore them. Symptoms may include the following:

• A change in bowel habits.
• Blood in or on your stool (bowel movement).
• Diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty all the way.
• Abdominal pain, aches, or cramps that persist.
• Unexplained weight loss.

These symptoms might be caused by something other than cancer. The only way to determine their cause is to see your doctor. If both men and women 45 years or older had regular screening tests, medical experts believe at least 60 percent of deaths from this cancer could be avoided. Screening tests can detect precancerous polyps, which can then be removed. 

The risks of colorectal cancer may be higher than average if:

• You are an African American, American Indian, or Alaska Native.
• You or a close relative has had a colorectal polyp or colorectal cancer.
• You have inflammatory bowel disease.
• You have a genetic syndrome, such as Lynch syndrome (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer) or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).

People at high risk for CRC may need earlier or more frequent screening than others. Speak with your healthcare provider about when to start screening, how often you should be tested, and screening options. These include a colonoscopy or a take-home stool test. Read more about them.

Simple lifestyle habits such as incorporating fruits and vegetables into daily meals, eating a diet low in animal fats, quitting tobacco, engaging in at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing alcohol consumption can also significantly reduce risk.

Visit the Alabama CRC Prevention Program for more information about CRC.

Scott Harris, M.D., M.P.H.
State Health Officer