Colorectal cancer - cancer of the colon or rectum - is
the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in
the United States for both men and women combined. The
disease surpasses both breast and prostate cancer in
mortality, second only to lung cancer in numbers of
cancer deaths. Despite the fact that it is highly
preventable, it is estimated that approximately
148,610 new cases of colorectal cancer will be
diagnosed in 2006 and 55,170 people will die from the
disease. Because many people are embarrassed to talk
about this disease, there are many myths about
colorectal cancer that need to be refuted.
Are you
over 50 and still avoiding "that test"? Remember that
the best way to prevent colon cancer is to be screened
for colon polyps and have them removed before they can
turn cancerous. You and your doctor can determine
which screening procedure is best for you. A flexible
sigmoidoscopy looks at the lower third of the colon,
while a colonoscopy involves the entire colon. People
with a family history of colon cancer or symptoms such
as recurring stomach pain, unexplained weight loss, or
blood in the stool, may need screening before the
recommended age of 50. To learn more about prevention
and treatment of colorectal cancer, go to
www.cancer.org
