Among cancers that affects both men and women, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Colon cancer is one of the most preventable, treatable and curable cancers. Ask your doctor about getting screened.
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy lets a doctor closely see the inside of the entire colon and rectum. The doctor is looking for polyps which could be an early sign of cancer. Polyps are small growths that over time can become cancer.
The doctor uses a thin (about the thickness of a finger), flexible, hollow, lighted tube that has a tiny video camera on the end. This tube is called a colonoscope (ko-LAHN-uh-SCOPE). The colonoscope is gently eased inside the colon and sends pictures to a TV screen. Small amounts of air are pumped into the colon to keep it open and let the doctor see clearly.
The exam itself takes about 30 minutes. Patients are given medicine to help them relax and even sleep while it’s done.
Symptoms:
- Pain or discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss
- Blood in the stool
- Changes in bowel movement
- Lump in the abdomen
- Constant fatigue
Risk Factors:
- Age 50+
- Family history of colon cancer or polyps
- History of Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis
- Rectal bleeding
- Change in bowel habits
- Smoking
Colon Cancer Facts & Statistics:
- More than 90% of colorectal cancers occur in people aged 50 and older.
- Among cancers that affect both men and women, Colorectal Cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States.
- It can take as many as 10 to 15 years for a polyp to develop into colorectal cancer. Regular screening can prevent many cases of colorectal cancer altogether by finding and removing certain types of polyps before they have the chance to turn into cancer. Screening can also help find colorectal cancer early, when it’s small, hasn’t spread, and is easier to treat.
Gut Healthy Foods
Beans
Broccoli, Kale, Cabbage
Tempeh, Sauerkraut, Soy Sauce
Bananas
Plain Yogurt
Blueberries
