What You Should Know About Colorectal Cancer
Did you know that colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in the U.S.? Colorectal cancer (also called colon cancer) is often not discussed as widely as other cancers, so it’s important to understand the risks and other key factors related to the disease.
4 Facts About Colon Cancer
Knowledge is power. Understanding our bodies, what can threaten them, and what is normal versus abnormal is a great way to be proactive about self care. To shed some light on colorectal cancer, here are four facts that everyone should be aware of.
1. What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the colon and rectum of an individual. The condition develops when polyps form on these areas of the body. Not all polyps result in cancer, but are more likely to if they’re larger in size.
2. An Increasing Number of Young People are Getting Diagnosed
While colon cancer can be diagnosed at any age, the disease is usually more common in people over the age of 50. However, those statistics have begun shifting recently, as doctors have started to see an increase in the amount of younger adults developing colon cancer. In 2021, the U.S. Preventative Screenings Task Force lowered the recommended age for colorectal cancer screenings from 50 to 45.
3. Lifestyle Factors Can Decrease Your Risk
There are dietary and lifestyle steps you can begin to take today to prevent colorectal cancer.
- Avoid processed and red meat, like beef and prepackaged lunch meats.
- Eat a nutritious diet, filled with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and high fiber foods like beans.
- Limit alcohol consumption. Studies have shown a strong link between drinking and a higher risk of colorectal cancer, particularly among men.
- Don’t smoke. Long term tobacco use increases your chances of developing the disease, along with many other conditions.
- Fit physical activity into your daily routine. Not only does obesity increase your colorectal cancer risk, being overweight increases your chances of dying from the disease.
4. Regular Screenings Save Lives
Colorectal cancer often does not show symptoms in its early stages, which is why getting screened for the disease is so crucial. For those who do exhibit symptoms, they include changes in bowel habits, abdominal cramps, unexplained weight loss without trying, and lethargy.
Adults ages 45 and older should have a colonoscopy every 5-10 years to detect polyps. If you have a family history or predisposition to the disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis), it’s usually recommended to start getting screened even earlier. Talk to your doctor if you have any factors that could potentially increase your risk.
Support for Seniors in Frankfort, Lafayette, and Beyond
If you or your senior family member has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer could use support with activities of daily living, Visiting Angels offers flexible in-home care options for seniors and disabled individuals in Northern Central Indiana including Frankfort, Lafayette, and surrounding towns.
Our in-home care plans include assistance with transportation to and from doctor’s appointments, medication reminders, light housekeeping, help with hygiene, healthy meal preparation, and much more.
To learn more or to set up a free initial consultation, please fill out our contact form or give us a call at 765-670-6260.