March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Posted on March 16, 2018
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States and the second leading cause of death from cancer. People over age 50 have the highest risk of colorectal cancer. You may also be at higher risk if you are African American, smoke, or have a family history of colorectal cancer.
The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is to get screened regularly starting at age 50. There are often no signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer – that’s why it’s so important to get screened.
Everyone can take these healthy steps to help prevent colorectal cancer:
• Get screened starting at age 50.
• Encourage your family members and friends over age 50 to get screened.
• Quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke.
• Get plenty of physical activity and eat healthy.
Learn more about colorectal cancer at www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal.
For information about preventive care coverage, see your Health New England Explanation of Coverage booklet. Learn more about Medicare preventive care coverage for colorectal cancer screenings at www.medicare.gov/coverage/colorectal-cancer-screenings.html.
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