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Colorectal Cancer Is More Than 90% Curable When Detected Early On
AdventHealth is here to support you with tools for prevention all the way through to early detection and treatment if needed. Starting with the knowledge you need to stay well ahead of this common disease.
Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
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Symptoms of colorectal cancer can be confused with those of other ailments. That’s why it’s incredibly important to track your patterns. Although symptoms don’t equal cancer, they’re a signal your body is giving you to get checked out.
“You should be aware of changes in your stool, blood in your stool, unintentional weight loss and a sense of bloating or cramping that doesn’t resolve,” explains Dr. Ehsan Chitsaz, a gastroenterologist with AdventHealth. “Unfortunately, many cancers don’t show symptoms until they’re advanced, and that’s why screening is so important.”
Who’s at Risk?
“Screening for colorectal cancer should begin at age 45. Recently, we’re seeing an increase in younger patients, especially those with pre-existing conditions, like inflammatory bowel diseases.”
A family or genetic history of colorectal cancer elevates your risk. Family history includes family members who had colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease and other polyprelated syndromes. African Americans have an increased risk of colon cancer, and men have a slightly higher risk than women.
Cancer Prevention
“The number one way to avoid colon cancer is to get screened,” says Dr.Chitsaz. “Healthy lifestyle habits like diet, exercise, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco are all great ways to stay healthy, but screening is the most important and has the greatest impact. There are links between alcohol and tobacco with development of cancer, and you should speak with your doctor about riskreduction strategies and try to quit smoking.”
Get Screened
AdventHealth is offering convenient and safe options to better serve you. From colonoscopies to at-home testing, we’ve got you covered.
For more information or to make an appointment, visit GetScreenedToday.com.
