Colon cancer is one of the most preventable of all cancers. According to the American Cancer Society, the survival rate for colorectal cancer is greater than 90 percent when detected early.
"Colorectal cancer does not always cause symptoms, especially in the early stages of the disease," notes Dr. John Allen, gastroenterologist and Chief Medical Director of Minnesota Gastroenterology, P.A. "It is the second most common cause of cancer death in the United States, even though colorectal cancer is almost entirely preventable when people undergo regular screening exams."
Prevention Suggestions
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Be sure your diet includes plenty of fresh fruits or vegetables daily, and eat less red meat.
- Exercise regularly.
- Limit alcohol intake.
- Do not smoke.
- Undergo Colon Cancer Screening – "Take the TEST FOR LIFE!"
Early Detection Saves Lives
Over the past 10 years, deaths from colorectal cancer have decreased more than any other cancer. Dr. Allen attributes this decrease to heightened public awareness about the importance of routine colon cancer screening and the effectiveness of colonoscopy: "I am encouraged that our message is being heard. However, there's still more work to be done. Even if you don't have family risk factors for the disease, it's important for all people 50 and older to get screened. Screening is the only reliable way to find the cancer at an early stage, when chances for recovery are best."
Screening Methods
Colorectal cancer almost always develops from abnormal growths, or polyps, found on the inside wall of the colon or rectum. Colonoscopy is the most accurate method to screen for colorectal cancer. It is the only method that can detect and remove precancerous polyps in a single procedure. Beginning at age 50, the American Cancer Society recommends the following exams to screen for colorectal cancer:
- Colonoscopy
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy
- Fecal occult blood test
- Barium enema
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