Did you know that March is Colorectal Awareness Month? Colorectal cancer ranks as the fourth most common cancer in the United States, affecting both women and men. It is the second most lethal cancer in America.
HOW PREVALENT IS COLORECTAL CANCER?
Each year, approximately 150,000 individuals in the U.S. are diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The likelihood of being diagnosed with colorectal cancer in one’s lifetime is 1 in 24. Sadly, more than 50,000 Americans are expected to succumb to colorectal cancer this year; however, currently, there are 1.5 million colorectal cancer survivors living in America.
AWARENESS OF SYMPTOMS IS KEY!
Symptoms of colon cancer may include:
• A change in bowel habits, such as increased frequency of diarrhea or constipation.
• Rectal bleeding or the presence of blood in the stool.
• Persistent discomfort in the abdominal area, such as cramps, gas, or pain.
• A sensation that the bowel does not completely empty during a bowel movement.
• Unexplained weakness or fatigue.
• Unintentional weight loss.
**Risk Factors**
• African American ethnicity.
• Lack of regular exercise.
• Advanced age.
• Personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
• Inflammatory bowel disease.
• Family history of colorectal cancer.
• Low fiber and high-fat diet.
• Diabetes.
• Tobacco use.
• Alcohol consumption.
• Obesity.