Colorectal Cancer Awareness

Colon cancer screening saves lives. Because of the increased incidence of colorectal cancer in younger adults, the American Cancer Society recommends people who are age 45, and at average risk, have regular colon cancer screening. This can include 1 of 6 different tests, either stool-based or visual examination, such as:

• Fecal immunochemical test, or FIT, yearly
• Fecal occult blood test, or FOBT, yearly
• Stool DNA test, every 3 years
• Colonoscopy every 10 years
• CT colonography, or virtual colonoscopy, every 5 years
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years

Your physician may suggest a different schedule based on your specific risk. If you are at increased risk for developing colorectal cancer, talk to your physician to assess your risk and determine a screening schedule.

Some of us are at higher risk for cancer than others. By knowing which members of your family have had certain cancers and the ages at which they were diagnosed, our genetic experts are able to better define your risk and the risk of your family.

Lynch syndrome is a hereditary condition that makes people more susceptible to several cancers, including cancer of the colon, uterus, ovary, stomach, small intestine, bile duct, upper urinary tract, brain and skin.

We provide a high-risk gastrointestinal clinic for patients with Lynch syndrome or other gastrointestinal conditions. This clinic focuses on primary prevention methods, like colonoscopy or gynecologic screening, formulating surveillance plans and referrals for surgical intervention, if needed.

The overall lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer is about 4%, or approximately 1 in 24 men and 1 in 26 women in the US, according to the American Cancer Society. This risk is slightly lower for women than for men.

Experts recommend routine colon cancer testing for everyone age 45 and older who has an average risk for the disease. If you are in a higher risk group, you may need testing sooner.

Talk to your physician about when you should be tested. If you have questions or want to request a screening, call 913-588-1227.

Don't rely on hindsight. Now is the perfect time to get behind colon cancer awareness. Share the facts and risk factors associated with the disease. Take a proactive approach to improve your odds.

• Get screened starting at age 45 (or before if you have other risk factors).
• Seek genetic counseling if you have a strong family history.
• Maintain a healthy diet and weight.
• Get active.
• Stop smoking (or never start).
• Reduce alcohol use.

Did you know that eating a diet rich in fiber provides a wealth of health benefits? It can help you maintain a healthy weight and help prevent colon cancer.