Colorectal Cancer Is Preventable, Treatable and Beatable
Published March 7, 2010
The American Cancer Society estimated that approximately 106,100 new cases of colorectal cancer were diagnosed in 2009. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in both men and women. The death rate from this cancer has decreased significantly over the past 2 decades due in part to improvements in early detection and treatment.
The risk for colorectal cancer increases with age; more than 90% of all cases are diagnosed in individuals who are 50 or older. Individuals who have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps are at a higher risk for developing this cancer due to a possible gene mutation. There are several behavioral risk factors that can be modified such as obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, a diet high in red and processed meats, and a diet low in fruits and vegetables.
The American Cancer Society recommends that beginning at age 50 both men and women who are at average risk for developing colorectal cancer should begin screening. Screening can result in the identification and removal of suspicious polyps before they become cancerous in addition to the detection of cancer at an early stage. Screening guidelines for colorectal cancer offer a variety of options depending upon your health status. It is important that you discuss with your health care provider which option is the most appropriate for you. Screening options include doing one of the following:
- A flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years
- A colonoscopy every 10 years
- A guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT) every year
If you are concerned about not having adequate insurance coverage for these important screening tests remember that coverage may be provided through the CEED grant at the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center. Please call Marge Vellotti at (908) 237-5409 to see if you qualify for this program. If you need a physician call Hunterdon Medical Center’s Physician Referral Service at 1-800-511-4462.