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Colorectal Cancer Awareness: Know the Risks, Signs & Prevention

  • Writer: MATLV
    MATLV
  • Mar 3, 2020
  • 2 min read

💙 March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month 💙

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common and deadly cancers in the United States. It’s the second-leading cause of cancer death in both men and women. According to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 22 men and 1 in 24 women will develop colorectal cancer during their lifetime.


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❓ What Is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer begins in the colon or rectum, located in the lower part of your digestive system. The colon (large intestine) and rectum are vital for processing waste and are commonly affected areas in this disease.


⚠️ Risk Factors Include:

  • 👵 Age 50 and older

  • 🩻 Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis)

  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family or personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps

  • 🧬 Genetic syndromes (FAP, Lynch syndrome)

  • 🛋️ Sedentary lifestyle

  • 🥩 High intake of red or processed meats

  • ⚖️ Obesity or being overweight

  • 🍺 Excessive alcohol use

  • 🚬 Smoking

  • 🍩 Poor diet (low in fiber, fruits, vegetables)

  • 🩸 Type 2 diabetes


🔍 Symptoms to Watch For:

Colorectal cancer may not cause symptoms early on, which is why regular screening is critical.Common signs include:

  • 🚽 Blood in or on stool

  • 🩸 Rectal bleeding

  • 🔄 Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea)

  • 📏 Narrow stools

  • 🤕 Persistent stomach pain, gas, or cramping

  • ⚖️ Unexplained weight loss

  • 😴 Constant fatigue

  • 🤮 Vomiting


If you notice any of these, contact your doctor right away.


🛡️ Prevention Tips:

While you can’t control your age or family history, you can reduce your risk by making healthy lifestyle choices:

  • 🥦 Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains

  • 🏃 Stay active daily

  • 🚭 Don’t smoke

  • 🍷 Limit alcohol intake

  • 🥩 Reduce red and processed meats

  • ⚖️ Maintain a healthy weight

  • 🧘 Manage stress

  • 💉 Manage diabetes effectively


📅 Get Screened – Don’t Wait

One of the best ways to prevent colorectal cancer is to schedule a colonoscopy at age 50, even if you have no symptoms or family history. Early detection saves lives.


Call your doctor today and talk about getting a colorectal cancer screening. Your health is worth it. 💙

 
 
 

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