The following information is provided by the Cancer Research and Prevention Foundation in conjunction with March being National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

Colorectal cancer- cancer of the colon or rectum- is the second leading cause of cancer- related deaths in the United States for both men and women combined. The disease surpasses both breast and prostate cancer in mortality, second only to lung cancer in numbers of cancer deaths.

There are ways to prevent colorectal cancer- screening tests are the most effective. These tests save lives by detecting polyps that have become cancerous in its earliest states. When discovered early, the disease can be cured in most cases.

There are currently four colorectal cancer screening tests widely available. The frequency of these types of screening varies depending upon a person’s medical history. Patients should talk to their health care provider about which screening procedure is right for them and how often they should be screened.

Beginning at age 50 (age 45 for African Americans):

1. Have a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) annually (Checking for blood in the stool).

2. Have a sigmoidoscopy every five years, or a colonoscopy or double contrast barium enema every five to ten years.

3. Have a digital rectal exam every five to ten years at the time of your screening, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy or barium enema.

Those at a higher risk for the disease who should be screened earlier include: (1) people with a personal or family history of the benign (not cancerous) colorectal polyps, (2) people with a personal or family history of colorectal cancer, (3) people with a personal or family history of inflammatory bowel disease- ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, (4) men and women who use tobacco, drink alcohol to excess, are obese or lead a sedentary life.

While colorectal cancer often develops with no symptoms (which is why screening for the disease is crucial) some symptoms can occur. If you have any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, see your health care provider immediately. Although these symptoms may be caused by several other conditions, you need to be tested to find out why you have them: rectal bleeding, bright red blood in the stool, change in bowel habits, general stomach discomfort (bloating, fullness, and cramps), weight loss for no apparent reason, constant tiredness.

In addition to screenings, these are other things you can do to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer. Maintain a healthy weight, participate in exercise, eat a diet rich in fruit and vegetables, and refrain from smoking. Stop by the Health and Healing display in the hall by the mailboxes for more information on this important topic.

Living for Him,

Collette Christoffers, Parish Nurse