According to the NIH National Cancer Institute:
- Colorectal cancer occurs when abnormal cells form tumors in normal tissues of the intestines and digestive system.
- Colorectal cancer is the 2nd leading cause of death from cancer in the U.S.
- The number of new colorectal cancer cases and the number of deaths from colorectal cancer are both decreasing a little bit each year in adults aged 55 and older. However, in adults younger than 55 years, the number has slowly increased.
- Avoiding risk factors and increasing protective factors may help prevent cancer.
- Risk factors include: age, family history, alcohol, cigarette smoking, race & obesity
- With regular screening options, including colonoscopy screening, colorectal cancer is preventable.
- Polyp removal may be recommended. See your physician for changes in bowel habits, abdominal bloating or weight loss.
For more information on Colorectal Cancer risk factors and prevention go to:
www.cancer.gov/types/colorectal/patient/colorectal-prevention-pdq
www.cancer.gov
www.cancer.org