March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Posted on February 8, 2019
About Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon or rectum. It can form from polyps, or abnormal growths, in the colon or rectum. People over age 50 have the highest risk of colorectal cancer.
Factors that may increase the risk for colorectal cancer include:
• A family history of the disease or polyps
• A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• A personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps
The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is to get screened regularly starting at age 50. Screenings can find polyps, which can be removed before they turn into cancer. There are often no signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer – that’s why it’s so important to get screened.
Talk to your doctor about your screening options
Make time to talk with your doctor about your risk for colorectal cancer. Ask about a screening colonoscopy and what other testing options are available. Together, you can determine the type of testing and schedule that’s right for you.
Learn more about colorectal cancer at www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal.
Source: www.cdc.gov
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