Cancer Issues
Screening Is Best Weapon Against Colon Cancer
By
Mar 18, 2010 - 10:09:23 AM

Screening Is Best Weapon Against Colon Cancer


(HealthNewsDigest.com) - Augusta, Ga. -- It's the third deadliest form of cancer in the United States, but it doesn't have to be. Colorectal cancer is a disease in which cells in the colon or rectum become abnormal and divide without control, forming a mass called a tumor. Any cancer can be deadly, but according to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable and beatable. Regular colorectal cancer screening or testing is the most powerful weapon against colorectal cancer.

From the time the first abnormal cells start to grow into polyps, it usually takes about 10 to 15 years for them to develop into colorectal cancer. Regular screening may, in many cases, prevent colorectal cancer altogether since many polyps, or growths, can be found and removed before they have the chance to turn into cancer. If early screening reveals cancer already exists, the chances are greater for a cure.

Several tests are used by a gastroenterlogist to screen for colorectal cancer. Ask your doctor which tests you should take.

People who have no identified risk factors should begin regular screening at age 50. Those who have a family history or other risk factors should begin screening earlier. Consult your physician to determine when is right for you.

Other risk factors for colorectal cancer include:

§ Race: African Americans have the highest colorectal cancer incidence and mortality rates of all racial groups in the United States. The reasons for this are not yet understood.
§ Diet: Some evidence suggests that the development of colorectal cancer may be associated with the frequent consumption of red and processed meats and a low consumption of whole grains, fruits and vegetables.
§ Lack of exercise: A sedentary lifestyle may be associated with an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. In contrast, people who exercise regularly may have a decreased risk.
§ Smoking: Increasing evidence suggests that cigarette smoking, particularly long-term smoking, increases the risk of colorectal cancer and other cancers.

The American Cancer Society estimates that colorectal cancer will kill 50,000 Americans this year. The good news, however, is that death rate is falling, largely due to timely screening and treatment. Be sure you are one of the survivors. Get screened.

MCG Health, Inc. (d/b/a MCGHealth) is a not-for-profit corporation operating the MCGHealth Medical Center, MCGHealth Children’s Medical Center, the Georgia Radiation Therapy Center, and related outpatient facilities and services throughout the state. For more information, please visit mcghealth.org.

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