Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States for both men and women (not including skin cancer).  The rate of people being diagnosed with colorectal cancer has decreased over the years mainly due to getting screened and having polyps removed before they become cancerous.  There is a 1 in 23 chance for men and a 1 in 25 chance for women to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer at some point in their lifetime.  The goal is to find polyps prior to a cancer diagnosis, but if not early detection of colorectal cancer is also important as treatment at an earlier stage increases survivorship.

A screening test is when we look for disease in people who do not have symptoms.  Essentially we want to find the disease before it has progressed.  It is important to talk with your doctor about your risk for colorectal cancer.  Screening recommendations may change based on your risk.  People with an average risk should begin screening for colorectal cancer at age 45.  People with a higher risk such as a first degree relative may begin screening sooner.  Of course if any symptoms such as changes in bowel habits for more than a couple of days; no bowel relief after having a bowel movement; rectal bleeding; cramping or belly pain; weight loss; or weakness/fatigue you should call your doctor right away.  

Projects…

Physician Projects

The Cape Atlantic Coalition for Health has worked with physicians in both Atlantic and Cape May County in regards to increasing colorectal cancer screening.  The purpose of the project is to make colorectal cancer screening more of a focus in primary care offices.  Screening recommendations include periodic colonoscopies which enable polyps (a small growth) to be removed before they grow into a cancer.  This is a form of preventing colorectal cancer and is the most ideal scenario.  We look forward to continuing physician relationships in order to promote colorectal cancer screening.  If you are interested in the Cape Atlantic Coalition for Health working with your practice please feel free to contact us at any time.

References:

Colorectal Cancer.  American Cancer Society.

Colorectal Cancer.  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Updated:  12/1/20