Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly occurring cancer in the United States and nearly 5 percent of Americans will develop colorectal cancer in their lifetime. At any time, over 1 million Americans are currently living with colorectal cancer.

“Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, with over 50,000 people expected to die from this disease each year,” Dr. William Hitzelberger, medical oncologist/hematologist, Alpena Cancer Center, said. “However, it is a preventable and very curable disease if caught early.”

Because there are often no symptoms when it is first developing, colorectal cancer can only be caught early through regular screening. “The benefits of early detection and treatment are dramatic,” Hitzelberger said. “The possibility of curing patients after symptoms develop is only 50 percent, but if colorectal cancer is found and treated at an early stage before symptoms develop, the opportunity to cure it is 80 percent or better. Most colon cancers start as non-cancerous growths called polyps. If we are able to find these polyps while they are still non-cancerous, we remove them and the cancer may be prevented. Major surgery can usually be avoided, as well.”

ASCRS Screening Guidelines

The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, which is dedicated to advancing the treatment of patients with diseases affecting the colon, rectum and anus, supports the following colorectal cancer screening guidelines:

• For people at average risk of getting colorectal cancer, a digital rectal examination and fecal occult blood test, which screens for hidden blood in the stool, are recommended annually beginning at age 50.

• Flexible sigmoidoscopy (a test that allows the physician to look directly at the lining of the lower colon and rectum) is recommended every five years at age 50 or older.

• A colonoscopy (a test that allows the physician to look directly at the lining of the entire colon and rectum) every 10 years or a barium enema (x-ray of the colon) every five to 10 years are acceptable alternatives.

• People at increased risk for colorectal cancer include those with a personal or family history of colorectal polyps or cancer, those with a personal history of breast, uterine or ovarian cancer, and those with chronic ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.

• Increased risk patients may need earlier and more frequent screening depending upon the recommendation of their healthcare provider.

Identifying hidden blood in the stool may be an early warning sign for colorectal disease. Colocare take home kits can be an important early detection tool that is used in conjunction with other screening practices, it is important to realize that this is not a diagnostic tool but rather a screening to identify blood in your stool.

Prevention Tips

In addition to timely and regular screening for colorectal cancer, people may be able to lower their risk of getting the disease by:

* Avoid foods high in saturated fat

* Eat plenty of vegetables, fruits and other high-fiber foods

* Exercise regularly and maintain a normal body weight

* Don’t smoke and drink alcohol only in moderation

Alpena Cancer Center has free Colocare kits available in the ARMC Health Resource Center Monday-Friday between 8 a.m.-4 p.m. through the month of March. Also housed at Alpena Regional Medical Center, the Alpena Cancer Center provides many treatment options, education and support for those facing, at-risk for, or interested in learning more about, cancer. For more information about the Alpena Cancer Center call 356-7353.