March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Every year, survivors and loved ones are empowered to tell their stories and advocate for policy change.
All adults over the age of 45 are at risk for colorectal cancer. It’s important to talk to your doctor about screenings. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S. and anyone who shows signs of the disease needs to be screened for the benefit of their health.
Who should get screened?
Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. It’s estimated that, in 2020, there will be approximately 147,950 new cases of colorectal cancer. About one in every 20 people will be diagnosed with the disease.
Unfortunately, because there isn’t enough awareness about colorectal cancer, at least one in every three people isn’t up to the date with their colorectal cancer screening. Screening is crucial for early detection and treatment. In fact, up to 60% of colorectal cancer deaths can be prevented with screening.
What can I do to prevent colorectal cancer?
The good news about colorectal cancer is that there has been a 30% decrease in mortality rate thanks to increased screening. The largest decrease occurred in Americans aged 65 and older.
While you may not be able to prevent colorectal cancer, you can reduce your risk for developing the disease by undergoing regular screenings. The CDC created the Colorectal Cancer Control Program (CRCCP) in 2009 to provide the necessary funds to establish colorectal cancer programs in four tribes and 25 states across the country. The goal of the program was to increase screenings by 80%, and today there are over 1 million survivors of colorectal cancer.
Up to 25% of people who are diagnosed with colorectal cancer have a family history of the disease. It’s important to know your family’s cancer risk to keep an eye on potential signs and symptoms. Many adults both under the age of 50 and older don’t know the signs and symptoms of colon and rectal cancers, causing a higher incidence of the disease.
Common signs of colorectal cancer include nausea, fatigue, weight loss, weakness, constipation, blood in your stool, dark stool, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and painful bowel movements. Know the signs and symptoms and get screened regularly.
If you’re living with colorectal cancer, your needs might change. Home care can help to meet those needs. Cypress HomeCare Solutions offers home care and a wide range of other services to help you feel as comfortable as possible. For more information on home care services, in-home personal care, or respite care services, contact Cypress HomeCare Solutions today.
