3 Facts Everyone Should Know About Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. However, despite that sobering statistic, there is some good news to report when it comes to colon cancer rates.  

It’s one of the most treatable cancers if detected early. And colon cancer rates have steadily declined, about 1%-2% a year since the mid-1990s, for adults 55 and over.

At Sierra Pacific Surgical, with offices in Roseville, Carmichael, Folsom, and Grass Valley, California, our surgical team performs colon surgery and also offers screening colonoscopies to identify cancer early, when it’s most treatable and to remove colon polyps, which are precancerous lesions.

Here, our surgeons share three important facts you should know about colon cancer. 

1. The best screening option is the one you do regularly

The CDC recommends regular cancer screening for everyone ages 45 to 75, or earlier if you have certain high-risk factors. Screening can save your life.

Colonoscopies are the gold standard when it comes to screening for colon cancer. They detect cancer as well as precancerous polyps. 

Depending on your risk level, you may only need a colonoscopy every 10 years. Some people put off getting this important screening test because they must follow an unpleasant prep routine and take the day off from work. 

If you’re at average risk of developing colon cancer, a popular screening alternative is a fecal DNA test that requires a stool sample that you collect at home and send to a lab for testing. 

While this test must be performed every three to five years and isn’t as effective at detecting precancerous polyps as a colonoscopy, no prep or surgery is required. However, if an abnormal sample is detected, you’ll have to undergo additional testing.

2. Early colon cancer symptoms are hard to detect

In many cases, there are no early symptoms. When symptoms do show up, they’re minor and common with those of other health issues, so you may not realize cancer is present. 

These early symptoms may include blood in your stool, which is also a symptom of hemorrhoids, changes in your bowel habits, and abdominal cramps. Because these symptoms are so common and minor, it’s vital that you schedule a regular colonoscopy screening as recommended by your doctor.

3. You can take steps to reduce colon cancer risk

While colon cancer is one of the most common cancers, there are simple ways you can reduce your risk of developing it. Here are the top ways you can reduce your overall risk:

• Get screened regularly
• Reduce or eliminate your consumption of red meat and processed meats such as hot dogs and some luncheon meats
• Quit smoking
• Exercise regularly
• Achieve and maintain a healthy weight
• Eliminate or reduce your alcohol consumption

Don’t put off scheduling a cancer screening test. If you’re due for your colonoscopy, call Sierra Pacific Surgical or request an appointment online.