Your Health: Talking About Colorectal Cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, colon cancer is the third most common cause of cancer in the United States. Colon cancer is a cancer that begins in the large intestines often as a noncancerous polyp.
Polyps are a small group of cells that form on the lining of the intestines. The majority of polyps are benign (noncancerous) when they are found and removed, but over time if not removed, these polyps can continue to grow and even develop into cancer. It is important to start screening for colon cancer around 50 years of age even if you are not having symptoms.
There are several risk factors for colon cancer.
These include a family history of colon cancer, obesity, alcohol, smoking, diabetes, older age and a personal history of colon polyps. Additional risk factors include a low-fiber, high- fat diet and a sedentary lifestyle.
Some of the symptoms of colon cancer include: a persistent change in bowel habits, blood in your stools, weakness or fatigue, unexplained weight loss or a persistent abdominal discomfort.
There are several choices for colorectal screening options including a Cologaurd test and a colonoscopy. Your primary health care provider can help you make the appropriate choice on which one is right for you.
Cologuard is a noninvasive test in which the stool is examined for abnormal DNA and traces of blood that could indicate a precancerous polyp or colon cancer. If either of these are found on the Cologaurd test, a colonoscopy will likely be recommended.
A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows the physician to look at the entire large intestine. During this exam, a long flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the anus and passed through the colon while the provider looks for abnormalities in the lining of the intestine. If there is a polyp found, it is removed.
In addition to regular screening for colon cancer, there are some lifestyle changes that you can make to reduce your risk of developing colon cancer. Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Talk to your doctor about how to quit smoking or contact the ND department of health at https://. ndquits. health. nd.gov/. Maintain a healthy weight and get regular exercise.
It is recommended that you get 30 minutes of exercise at least 5 days a week. Exercise not only decreases your risk for colon cancer but also helps to control weight, decreases depression and improves mood, promotes better sleep and helps to control other chronic health conditions such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes.
If you are over the age of 50 and have not had your first colorectal cancer screening or are having any symptoms of colon cancer, talk to your provider today. When you are ready for your colonoscopy, we are here to take care of you at CHI Mercy Health in Valley City, ND. We have three providers who perform colonoscopies. Anesthesia is performed by a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist that allows for patients to have less discomfort during the procedure and wake up more quickly after the procedure. For more information, please contact the surgery department at CHI Mercy Health at 701-845- 6522.
Stephanie Kruta is a registered nurse and manager of surgical services and the pain management clinic at CHI Mercy Health.
YOUR HEALTH is coordinated by City County Health District.