DEFEND YOURSELF AGAINST Colorectal Cancer

Cancer of the colon or rectum — commonly called colorectal cancer — is the second leading cause of cancer-related death, but preventative screenings have helped the number of cancer cases decrease since the 1980s.

“The key to protecting yourself is being proactive,” Dr. Monisha Singh, medical oncologist at Houston Methodist Hospital, explained. “If colorectal cancer is caught early, it has a much higher survival rate.”

How It Develops

Colorectal cancer attacks the large intestine — the long digestive organ that removes solid waste from the body. The majority of colorectal cancers start as polyps.

“Polyps are small clumps of cells that form on the inside of the colon,” Singh explained. “Whether a polyp will turn into cancer

DON’T IGNORE THESE SIGNS

Don’t overlook the warning signs of colorectal cancer. If you experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor right away.

■ Abdominal pain, bloating or cramps

■ Bright red or black stool

■ Changes in bowel habits such as new constipation or diarrhea

■ Exhaustion

■ Unexplained weight loss

When it comes to colorectal cancer, early detection is key. Make an appointment for a colorectal cancer screening at houstonmethodist.org/cancer/ colorectal-cancer or call 713.790.2700 depends on its type and size.” Simply identifying and removing them before they become cancerous usually prevents the disease.

Screening Is Vital

The American Cancer Society recommends most individuals begin screening around age 45. “Unfortunately, about one-third of people over 45 have never been screened,” Singh noted. “If you are at higher risk or have a family history of colorectal cancer, you should start earlier.”

There are several types of screening tests available. Talk to your doctor about which option is best for you and your screening schedule. Screening options include:

■ Colonoscopy, while under sedation, a scope is used to examine the inside of your colon and look for polyps or any other abnormalities.

■ Stool DNA test, a sample of your stool will be examined for genetic mutations and blood products in the stool.

■ CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy), X-rays and a CT scan are used to make pictures of the inside of the colon and rectum.

■ Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) or guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT), a sample of your stool will be examined for hidden blood.

■ Flexible sigmoidoscopy, much like a colonoscopy, doctors use a device to examine inside the rectum and lower colon.

Reduce Your Risk

The following lifestyle changes can help lower your risk of colorectal cancer:

■ Eat low-fat meals rich in fruits and vegetables.

■ Exercise regularly.

■ Limit alcohol to one drink daily for women and two for men.

■ Maintain a healthy weight.

■ Quit smoking.

Experts also say don’t overlook dietary fiber. “A high-fiber diet can greatly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer,” Singh said. “You should follow a well-balanced diet that consists of fiber-rich foods, like whole grain products, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds.” •