Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers, with roughly 150,000 cases diagnosed in the US every year.
Like with many other cancers, early detection of colon cancer is highly important for successful treatment. Here is what you should know.
How often should you be screened?
Doctors recommend that everyone at an average risk of colorectal cancer should get a colonoscopy every five to ten years beginning at the age of 50. If you have had a family member diagnosed with colon cancer you should start screening at the age of 40, or at 10 years younger than the age of the family member diagnosed.
What are some possible symptoms?
Changes in bowel movements such as constipation or diarrhea, rectal bleeding, bloody stool, weight loss, fatigue, bowel movements that don’t seem to fully empty your bowels, and abdominal cramps or pain.
What are the risks if it’s left untreated?
If colorectal cancer is not treated it could spread to the lymph nodes and other nearby organs. It is vital that it is discovered early on.
Our gastroenterology team is dedicated to increasing colon cancer awareness and wants our patients to know how important regular screenings are. Please be sure to schedule a colonoscopy if needed.
