Gastroenterologists provide five facts to reduce colon cancer risk

NewYork-Presbyterian HospitalMar 2 2012

The number two cancer killer in the U.S. is often preventable and highly curable.

"It's important for people to understand that, with proper screening, colon cancer can not only be detected early, but often can be prevented from developing," says Dr. Felice Schnoll-Sussman, a gastroenterologist and acting director of The Jay Monahan Center for Gastrointestinal Health at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center.

Dr. Benjamin Lebwohl, a gastroenterologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center, adds, "Despite the availability of effective screening tests, approximately one-third of Americans are not getting screened for colorectal cancer according to national recommendations."

Drs. Schnoll-Sussman and Lebwohl provide five facts that everyone should know to help reduce their risk of colon cancer.

* Get screened -- it could save your life.
Screening can detect early cancers as well as polyps before they become cancer. Men and women at should begin screening at age 50.

* Screening is done when you feel well!
Colon polyps and early cancers often cause no symptoms. You could have colon cancer and not even know it. This is why screening--before symptoms occur--is essential!

* Know your risk factors.
Certain risk factors may require screening to be performed at a younger age. These include inflammatory bowel disease, a personal or family history of colon cancer, colon polyps, or certain hereditary conditions that can cause colon cancer, such as Lynch Syndrome or Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP). Ask your doctor about when to start screening if you have any of these risk factors.

* Put down that cigarette and get moving.
There are a few lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk, such as quitting smoking, avoiding excess intake of red and processed meats, maintaining a healthy body weight, and exercise. Smokers also have an increased risk of developing colon cancer. Replace those cigarettes with colorful fruits and vegetables!

* Remember, colon cancer does not discriminate.
One in twenty women and men are diagnosed with cancer of the colon or rectum in their lifetime. While those with a family history of colon polyps or cancer are at increased risk and need to begin screening at a younger age, the vast majority of people who develop colon cancer have no family history of the disease.