When men and women are combined, colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths. In fact, this year in Colorado, an estimated 2,040 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and an estimated 700 people will die from the disease.
The incidence of colorectal cancer is swiftly shifting to younger individuals as cases increases in young adults and declines in older age groups. In fact, the American Cancer Society said recently that 20% of new colorectal cancer diagnoses in 2019 were in patients under 55, which is double the rate from 1995 (11%).
- COLORECTAL CANCER IN COLORADO: More information
- CANCER SCREENING RESOURCES: Colorado Cancer Coalition
Thankfully, colorectal cancer is one of only a few cancers that can be prevented. Through proper screening, doctors can find and remove hidden growths (called “polyps”) in the colon, before they become cancerous. Removing polyps can prevent cancer altogether. This regular screening can also result in finding cancer early, providing greater access to treatment.
- BLOG: Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: Let’s Talk Risk Factors – Cancer Support Community
- PODCAST: What you need to know about colorectal cancer – Cancer Support Community Frankly Speaking About Cancer series
- PODCAST: When Cancer Hits a Disaster Expert - A Conversation with Jamie Aten -- Jamie is a disaster expert who was faced with his own personal disaster when he was diagnosed with stage 4 Colorectal cancer at the age of 35. Jamie shares his cancer story incorporating insights from his personal survivor experience and what he has learned from studying disaster survivors from around the globe. – Cancer Support Community
With colon cancer on the rise among adults between the ages or 20 and 54, it’s important to be proactive with your health. Follow these tips to reduce your risk for colorectal cancer:
- Eat a healthy diet, don’t smoke and drink alcohol only in moderation.
- Get 45 to 60 minutes of regular exercise per week. When you move, your bowels move too!
- Find out if your family has a history of colon cancer or benign polyps to assess your risk.
- Talk to your doctor if you have a medical condition that increases your risk of colon cancer, like inflammatory bowel disease, and discuss the right age to start cancer screenings.
- Know the common symptoms of colon cancer, like rectal bleeding, continuous abdominal pain, fatigue and sudden weight loss
Colorectal Cancer Screening
The Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at HealthONE, along with the American Cancer Society, recommends that people at average risk begin regular screening at age 45. Individuals with a high or increased risk of colorectal cancer, including people with colon or rectal cancer in their family, should discuss the need for screening before age 45 with their health care provider.
- MORE INFORMATION: Risk Factors, Diagnosis & Staging, Treatment & Side Effect Management – Cancer Support Community
Screening Options
There are many test options, including simple, affordable tests. Talk to your doctor about the right option for you and about whether your health insurance covers tests. The most common tests are stool tests and colonoscopy. Stool tests are performed in the privacy of your home. A colonoscopy is done by a specialist in a hospital or outpatient center.
The Sarah Cannon Cancer Network at HealthONE offers 24/7 access to askSARAH, a phone line designated to help answer your cancer-related questions. Nurses who can connect you to local resources, including a nurse navigator or service representative for appointments, staff the phone line. Contact askSARAH at 303-253-3325 to connect directly to a nurse to help you today.
