Breaking the Silence on Colorectal Cancer

Over the last decade there has been unprecedented progress in reducing colorectal cancer incidence and death rates in the U.S. by 3 percent in both men and women annually. These improvements are the result of cancer prevention and early diagnosis through screening and better treatment modalities.

Despite this encouraging news, there is still much to do. The incidence of colorectal cancer has actually been increasing in those under 50; and remains the fourth most frequently diagnosed cancer overall and the nation’s second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Unlike some other cancers, however, it is one of only a few cancers that can be prevented. Through proper colorectal cancer screening, doctors can find and remove hidden growths (called polyps) in the colon, before they become cancerous. Removing polyps can prevent cancer altogether. The American Cancer Society (ACS) reports that only 59 percent of people age 50 or older received colorectal cancer testing according to the results of a large scale survey conducted in 2010. Barriers such as insurance problems, misinformation about benefits, fear, embarrassment, and inconvenience are cited as reasons why rates are not higher. The rates of screening in New Jersey are especially concerning. The state ranks 34th out of 51 (50 states, plus the District of Columbia) in colorectal cancer screening prevalence. Education and awareness can change all of this. By talking about colorectal cancer and bringing it to the forefront, we can reduce people’s feelings of embarrassment or discomfort with the topic. Ideally, colorectal cancer screening should begin at age 50, with colonoscopy being the standard test. A National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable (NCCRT) initiative is “80 percent by 2018,” in which more than 500 organizations have committed to substantially reducing colorectal cancer as a major public health problem and are working toward the shared goal of 80 percent of adults aged 50 and older being regularly screened for colorectal cancer by 2018. Leading public health organizations, such as the American Cancer Society, the Centers for Disease Control, and the NCCRT are rallying organizations to embrace this shared goal.

Colon Cancer Risks

It is important to note that your risk of developing colorectal cancer is increased if you have a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps, personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, or specific inherited syndromes. Such patients need to begin screening at age 40 or younger. Being aware of symptoms such as rectal bleeding and reporting it immediately to your physician could also lead to earlier diagnosis. Finally, limiting a diet high in red and processed meats, increasing exercise, limiting alcohol, addressing obesity, and stopping smoking also will help decrease colorectal cancer. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or are approaching age 50, be sure to ask your doctor about getting screened.

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