Colorectal cancer, while often asymptomatic in its early stages, presents subtle signs that demand attention. A persistent alteration in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, abdominal discomfort, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue serve as potential indicators. Regular screenings, particularly colonoscopies, emerge as vital tools for timely detection and effective management, empowering individuals to take control of their health and well-being.
Colorectal Cancer: What You Need to Know
Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, with an estimated 147,950 new cases and 53,200 deaths in 2020. It is a cancer that starts in the colon or rectum, and it can be prevented, detected, and treated if found early.
Colorectal cancer often has no symptoms in the early stages, making it difficult to detect. However, there are some signs to watch for, such as a persistent change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, or a change in the consistency of your stool. Other symptoms include rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor right away. Colorectal cancer is highly treatable if it is found early, but it can be fatal if it is not.
Spotting Colorectal Cancer Early
There are a number of things you can do to spot colorectal cancer early, including:
- Getting regular screenings. Colonoscopies are the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening, and they can detect precancerous polyps and remove them before they have a chance to turn into cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults aged 45 and older get a colonoscopy every 10 years. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you may need to start getting screened earlier.
- Be aware of the symptoms. Colorectal cancer often has no symptoms in the early stages, but there are some signs to watch for, such as a persistent change in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor right away.
- Make healthy lifestyle choices. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer.
The Importance of Regular Screenings
Regular screenings are the most important thing you can do to spot colorectal cancer early. Colonoscopies are the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening, and they can detect precancerous polyps and remove them before they have a chance to turn into cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults aged 45 and older get a colonoscopy every 10 years. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you may need to start getting screened earlier.
Colorectal cancer is a serious disease, but it is highly treatable if it is found early. By getting regular screenings, you can help to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer and improve your chances of survival.
Learn More About Colorectal Cancer
There are a number of resources available to help you learn more about colorectal cancer, including:
- The American Cancer Society
- The National Cancer Institute
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
These organizations can provide you with information about colorectal cancer, including its symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options. You can also find support groups and other resources to help you cope with colorectal cancer.