March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the United States, yet it’s highly preventable with screening. Here’s why getting checked matters:
- Screening can find the warning signs of colon and rectal cancer, so you can take action to stop the disease.
- Screening can also find colorectal cancer early, when treatment is most effective.
- Unlike most cancers, colorectal cancer is highly treatable when detected early.
Colorectal cancer is a cancer that starts in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the digestive system. Colorectal cancer may not cause any symptoms, especially in its early stages. Some symptoms might be due to other causes like hemorrhoids, diarrhea, infection, or irritable bowel syndrome. Symptoms may include the following:
- Rectal bleeding
Blood in or on your stool is a symptom of rectal cancer and colon cancer. The blood can be bright red, or the stool may be black and tarry or brick red. - Changing bowel habits
Changing bowel habits may include intermittent or constant diarrhea and/or constipation, a change in the consistency of your stool, or stools that are more narrow than usual. - Persistent abdominal discomfort
Abdominal discomfort may present as cramps, gas, or pain. You may also feel full, bloated, or like your bowel is not completely empty. Nausea and vomiting can also be symptoms. - Unexplained weight loss
A loss of weight for no known reason should always be investigated.
To prevent colorectal cancer, which is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, consider adopting these healthy lifestyle choices:
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Maintain a healthy weight
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Get plenty of exercise
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Eat a balanced diet
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Limit your intake of processed meats, red meats, and sugary drinks
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Quit smoking
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Limit your alcohol intake
If you’re over 45 years old, or have a history of colorectal cancer, the team at Lakes Urgent Care strongly encourages you to take a moment now and schedule an appointment with your physician and get screened.