March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month!

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month!

Screening starts at age 50 and older, if screened regularly, 6 out of 10 deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented. Early detection is key for a better chance for survival and treatment options. A cancerous polyp can take as many as ten to 15 years to develop into cancer. With regular screening, doctors can remove polyps before they have the chance to turn into cancer.

Below are some tips to raise awareness and some facts to take action toward prevention.

-      Encourage families to get active together – exercise may help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.

-      Discuss your family history with your doctor and talk about your options for prevention and testing.

-      Talk to family, friends, and people in your community about the importance of getting screened for colorectal cancer starting at age 50.

-       Encourage people over 50 to use this interactive tool to decide which colorectal cancer screening test they prefer.

-       Note these symptoms: changes in your bowel, persistent abdominal pain, bloating, blood in stool, cramps/gas, chronic fatigue and unexplained weight loss.

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