HEALTH ALERT! |
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(NAPSI)-The statistics around colorectal cancer (CRC) are frightening. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CRC is the third most common form of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among both men and women. But it is also highly treatable and, in many cases, preventable, if discovered early. It is estimated that as many as 60 percent of CRC deaths could be prevented if those at risk would undergo routine screenings. CDC and the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (NCCDPHP) recommend periodic colorectal cancer screenings beginning at age 50. Although it is important for everyone over the age of 50 to get screened for CRC, it is especially important for those with a family history of colorectal polyps or CRC. Others at high risk include African-Americans (who are 15 percent more likely to get CRC than Caucasians), smokers and people who are overweight. CRC does not always have symptoms, which is why screening is so important. However, some symptoms include: • Blood in or on stool • Consistent pain, aches or cramps in the stomach • Change in bowel habits, such as narrow stools • Weight loss. There are several tests for colorectal cancer screening: fecal occult blood test (FOBT), fecal immunochemical test (FIT), stool DNA test, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, double contrast barium enema (DCBE), CT colonography, and digital rectal exam (DRE). Your health care provider can help determine which test is most appropriate for you. What can you do to help prevent CRC? • At 50, get screened. • Speak with your health care provider if you have a family history of CRC. • Maintain a healthy lifestyle with exercise, healthy eating habits and regular checkups. For more information about colorectal cancer, please visit the CDC Web site at www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal/ or speak with your health care provider. |
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