Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

What Is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month?

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer affects the colon or rectum, which are parts of the digestive system. It is the second deadliest cancer in the United States. And yet most cases are highly preventable with screening and lifestyle changes. In addition, if colon cancer is detected early, then it is often treatable and beatable. Many people do not know they have this cancer at first because it can grow quietly. When people know more, they can take steps to protect their health and help others too.

Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Signs of colorectal cancer vary from person to person and typically do not cause symptoms in the early stages. As it progresses, more symptoms may appear, including:

• Diarrhea or constipation that does not get better
  
  
• Change in bowel habits, such as size, shape and frequency
  
  
• Rectal bleeding or blood in stool after a bowel movement
  
  
• Discomfort or pain during bowel movements or when sitting
  
  
• Discomfort or urge to pass stool when there is no need
  
  
• Bloating or full feeling
  
  
• Abdominal pain or cramping in your lower stomach
  
  
• Weight loss without dieting or exercising
  
  
• Excessive fatigue

If the colon cancer progresses to advanced stages, the polyp (overgrowth of tissue) in the colon or rectum can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body.

Risk Factors of Colorectal Cancer

A risk factor is something that makes a person more likely to get sick. Some risk factors for colorectal cancer cannot be changed, like being older than 45 years old, family history of cancer, and personal history of having polyps or inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s, etc).

Other risk factors can be changed.

1. A diet high in red and processed meat, low fiber and low intake of fruits and vegetables raise the risk.
   
   
2. Tobacco use and alcohol consumption are also linked to higher risk.
   
   
3. Obesity and being physically inactive increase the risk.

How to Participate

There are many ways to take part in Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. One easy way is by wearing blue, the color for colorectal cancer awareness. People can also share what they learn with friends and family. Talking about health helps everyone learn and feel supported. Schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to talk about ways to prevent colon cancer and to screen for colon cancer. You can be screened for colon cancer starting at age 45 or earlier based on risk factors. Encourage people around you to see their doctor too.

Dr. Maanasa Chittari is a resident physician who sees patients of all ages and provides obstetrical services at Lone Star Family Health Center, a non-profit 501©3 Federally Qualified Health Center operating facilities in Conroe, Spring, Willis, Grangerland, and Huntsville, and serving as home to a fully integrated Family Medicine Residency Program to increase the number of Family Medicine physicians for Texas and our community.