Every March, the nation turns its focus toward National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a form of cancer that affects 1 in every 100 people. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the U.S. and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among both men and women.
While advancements in screening and treatment have improved outcomes, raising awareness about the risk factors associated with colorectal cancer is crucial for prevention and early detection. The goal of National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is to increase awareness that colorectal cancer is largely preventable, treatable, and beatable.
Risk factors:
Age and family history are well-established risk factors for colorectal cancer, with individuals over 50 and those with a family history of the disease being at higher risk. However, lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and tobacco use also significantly influence an individual's risk.
Diets high in red and processed meats, low in fiber, fruits, and vegetables, along with sedentary lifestyles and tobacco use, contribute to an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Promoting healthy lifestyle choices:
Encouraging healthy lifestyle choices is crucial in reducing the risk of colorectal cancer. Adopting a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting red and processed meats can lower the risk.
Regular physical activity not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also reduces the risk of colorectal cancer. Additionally, tobacco-ending efforts are vital as smoking has been linked to an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Importance of regular screenings:
Early detection through regular screenings significantly improves the prognosis of colorectal cancer. Screening methods such as colonoscopies, fecal occult blood tests, and fecal immunochemical tests can detect precancerous polyps or early-stage cancers when treatment is most effective.
If you’re 45 to 75 years old, get screened for colorectal cancer regularly. If you’re younger than 45 and think you may be at high risk of getting colorectal cancer, or if you’re older than 75, talk to your doctor about screening. By promoting awareness of the importance of timely screenings, individuals can take proactive steps to detect and treat colorectal cancer early, potentially saving lives.
Raising awareness about colorectal cancer risk factors, promoting healthy lifestyle choices, and advocating for regular screenings are essential strategies in the fight against this disease. By uniting in our commitment to Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and beyond, we can empower individuals to take proactive steps toward reducing their risk of developing colorectal cancer and improving outcomes for those affected.
Together, through collaborative efforts, we can make strides in reducing the burden of colorectal cancer and enhancing the overall health and well-being of our communities.
For information about services and programs available to you through Carson City Health and Human Services, visit our website at www.gethealthycarsoncity.org, or give us a call at 775-887-2190. You can also find us at 900 E. Long St., in Carson City, or follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/cchhs, X @CCHealthEd, or Instagram @GetHealthCarsonCity.