Are You at Risk for Colorectal Cancer?

March is Colon-Rectal Awareness Month! Too many of my friends, relatives, patients, and clients have been affected by this disease. March 5th was National Colon Cancer Day. That date came and went, but I could not let the month pass without bringing attention to the importance of Prevention, Screening, Early Detection of Colon-Rectal Cancer.

Prevent. Screen. Treat. Early Detection Saves Lives.

Cancer of the colon and/or rectum (colorectal cancer) can begin without symptoms, which is why early screening is important. Pre-cancerous and benign polyps can be removed before they become cancer. While routine screening often begins at 50, screening for those at higher risk may begin as early as 30’s. Having a family history of colorectal cancer puts you at higher risk.Increased Risk of Colorectal Cancer –

• Family history of colon and/or rectal cancer
• History of colorectal polyps
• Obesity
• Lack of Physical Activity
• Smoking 
• High-Fat (Saturated/Trans-fat) Diet
• Alcohol Use

Colon…