Colorectal Cancer is cancer of the colon (the large bowel or large intestine) and the rectum. Colorectal cancer may begin as non-cancerous polyps, which are grape-like growths on the lining of the colon and rectum. For reasons that are not fully understood, these polyps may become cancerous. According to the National Colorectal Cancer Research Alliance, nearly 150,000 Americans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer annually and an estimated 60,000 die, most of them unnecessarily. Sadly, over 15,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed under the recommended screening age of 50 each year.
Even as the second leading cause of cancer in the United States for men and women combined, colorectal cancer is one of the most curable cancers, when detected at an early stage.
Colorectal Cancer Facts
- Colorectal cancer is highly preventable, treatable, and often curable.
- According to the National Colorectal Cancer Research Alliance, nearly 150,000 Americans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer annually and an estimated 60,000 die, most of them unnecessarily.
- Even as the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States for men and women combined, colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, as well as one of the most curable cancers, when detected at an early stage.
- Over 15,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year under the recommended screening age of 50.
- A low-fat diet high in vegetables and fruits and regular exercise can help reduce your risk of colorectal cancer.
- Regular screening tests may detect pre-cancerous polyps. Removal of these may prevent cancer from developing.
- Screening tests can help detect colorectal cancer in its earliest, most curable stages.
- When detected and treated early, the five-year survival rate is over 90%.
- Beginning at age 50, men and women should be screened regularly for colorectal cancer - screening tests are not painful, and are often covered by Medicare and many health insurers.
- It is important to get a colonoscopy if you have symptoms at any age.
- A colonoscopy is the best way to find and remove colon polyps, preventing colorectal cancer before it starts.
Colorectal cancer is preventable and easier to treat when detected early. Talk with your healthcare provider about what kind of screening test is right for you.
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