Colon Cancer - Your Risk, Prevention and Treatment
It may not seem possible, but it is true. Colon cancer can be cured. As many as sixty percent of all colorectal cancer deaths could be prevented with regular screening.
Colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon and/or rectum) strikes both men and women. In fact, it is the third most common form of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States.
Early detection by appropriate screening tests can detect and even remove benign polyps and early cancers. When detected early, ninety percent of all colorectal cancers can be cured.
Colorectal cancer can be prevented
Beginning at age 50, talk to your primary care physician about starting a screening program and follow one of these guidelines:
- colonoscopy once every 10 years;
- flexible sigmoidoscopy once every 5 years;
- double contrast barium enema every 5 years;
- or a fecal occult blood test annually.
If you don’t have a personal physician, call 1-877-AT-AVERA (1-877-282-8372) for referral to an Avera physician.
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What you can do to decrease your risk for colorectal cancer:
- Lifestyle Changes
By improving your diet, increasing your physical activity, not smoking, and limiting your use of alcohol you can lower your risk of colorectal cancer.
- Personal and Family Medical History
Learning about the role of your personal and family history in the development of colorectal cancer can help ensure that you seek appropriate tests, which can help detect the disease at an earlier, more treatable stage.
- Early Detection
With regular screening, colorectal cancer can be found early, when treatment is most effective. In many cases, screening can prevent colorectal cancer by finding and removing polyps before they become cancer. And if cancer is present, earlier detection means a chance at a longer life.
Look no further
Because of the hesitancy to discuss the disease and many of its symptoms, colorectal cancer often goes unnoticed and untreated. If you or a loved one experiences any symptoms of colorectal cancer, Avera McKennan offers a team of specialists with the knowledge and expertise to meet your needs.
Screening services are available mornings and afternoons at the Avera Gastroenterology Clinic. Should additional care be needed, our team of experts will develop a personalized treatment plan including the most effective treatment options and medical innovations. To learn more, call 1-877-AT-AVERA (1-877-282-8372).
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