Know your risks for colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer occurs when abnormal cell growth occurs in the colon or rectum. The colon is also called the large intestine or large bowel. The rectum is the last section of the colon, connecting it to the anus.
Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men and women in the United States and the second most common when the groups are combined. Colorectal cancer caused more than 53,000 deaths in 2024.
Fortunately, screening can detect polyps early, allowing physicians to remove them before they can develop into cancer. This has contributed to decades of declining death rates from colorectal cancer.
Tips to help prevent colorectal cancer include:
- Exercise
- Get regular screenings
- Limit your alcohol use
- Don’t use tobacco
- Eat 5+ fresh or raw vegetables and fruits every day
Risk factors for colon cancer
Both men and women are at risk for colorectal cancer. Your risk increases as you get older. More than 90% of cases occur in people who are 45+ years old.
Lifestyle factors that may increase risk include:
- Family history of colorectal cancer
- Lack of regular physical activity
- Diet low in fruit, vegetables and fiber, high in fat
- Overweight
- Alcohol consumption
- Tobacco use
Common symptoms
Colorectal polyps are abnormal growths in the colon or rectum that can turn into cancer if not removed. They don’t always cause symptoms, especially at first. Someone could have polyps or colorectal cancer and not know it. That is why getting screened regularly for colorectal cancer is so important.
If you have symptoms, they may include:
- Blood in or on your stool (bowel movement)
- Changes in your bowel habits
- Fatigue
- Stomach pain, aches, bloating, or cramps that don’t go away
- Unexplained weight loss
Screening saves lives
Regular screening, beginning at age 45, is the key to early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer. Screenings can help detect precancerous polyps that can be removed before they possibly turn into cancer.
Also consider getting screened for
- Breast cancer starting at age 40 (earlier if at higher risk)
- Prostate cancer starting at age 50 (higher risk 40-45)
- Skin cancer starting at age 40(annual screenings should be done by a dermatologist)
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. You can pick up a free colorectal at-home cancer screening kit at different locations throughout Springfield this month. Simmons Cancer Institute is hosting a drive-thru giveaway on March 19.
