March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month:
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States and the second leading cause of death from cancer. Colorectal cancer is cancer that occurs in the colon or rectum. Colorectal cancer affects all racial and ethnic groups and is most often found in people ages 50 and older. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/colon-rectal-cancer.html
Cancer Screening Saves Lives!
The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is to get screened regularly starting at age 50. Colorectal cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms, initially – which makes it much more important to get screened regularly. Make sure to talk to your doctor about when you should begin cancer screenings, how often, and which test is right for you.
Who is at a Greater Risk for Developing Colorectal Cancer?
- Adults over 50 years of age
- Those with a family history of Colorectal Cancer, Inflammatory Bowel Disease or Chrons Disease
- Those with lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, overweight or obesity, or tobacco Use
What Can You Do To Reduce These Risks?
- Get regular screening starting at age 50
- Encourage your family members and friends over age 50 to get screened.
- Don’t smoke
- Be physically active
- Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and fiber, while avoiding high fat foods
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides fact sheets with more information about colorectal and other cancers. To learn more, visit https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/index.htm.
To learn more about colorectal cancer education and prevention efforts in your community, visit the Florida Department of Health at http://www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/cancer/colon-cancer/index.html or contact them at (850) 245-4330.
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