Colon Cancer Screenings
Screening for LifeThe Gastroenterology Clinic wants to remind you of the importance of screening for colorectal cancer. Prevention is the key to saving lives. Please take a moment to read the information below and if you meet any of the criteria, we encourage you to see your Gastroenterologist or family physician. What is Colorectal Cancer?Colorectal cancer is cancer that occurs in the colon or rectum. The colon is the large intestine or large bowel. The rectum is the passageway connecting the colon to the anus. The Second Leading Cancer KillerColorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the U.S. but if everyone 50 or older had regular screening tests, at least one third of deaths from this cancer could be avoided. Who Gets Colorectal Cancer?Colorectal cancer occurs most often in people age 50 and older. Both men and women can get colorectal cancer. The risk increases with age. Are You at High Risk?Your risk for colorectal cancer may be higher than average if you or a close relative have had colorectal polyps or cancer, or if you have inflammatory bowel disease. Speak with your doctor about having earlier or more frequent tests if you think you're at high risk for colorectal cancer. Screening Saves LivesIf you're 50 or older, getting a screening test for colorectal cancer could save your life. Here's how:
What Are the Symptoms?People who have polyps or colorectal cancer don't always have symptoms, especially at first. So someone could have polyps or colorectal cancer and not know it. But if there are symptoms, they may include:
If you have any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor. These symptoms may be caused by something other than cancer. However, the only way to know what is causing them is to see your doctor.
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Colorectal Screening Saves Lives
Guidelines for Colorectal Cancer Screening | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
![]() |