Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States — but discomfort around discussing its symptoms and scheduling screenings can keep some people from getting diagnosed and treated early.
Meena Sadaps, MD, a medical oncologist who specializes in gastrointestinal cancers at RUSH MD Anderson Cancer Center, says that it’s a conversation worth having with your primary care provider right now. Screening can find colorectal cancer before you ever notice a problem and can sometimes prevent it altogether.
“Early detection is key,” Sadaps says.
Know what raises your risk
Colorectal cancer develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the large intestine (colon) or final section of the digestive tract (rectum).
Some risk factors for the disease can’t be controlled, including age, race, family history and inflammatory bowel disease. Other factors, like diet, lifestyle, smoking, drinking alcohol and exercise, are easier to manage.
If you have an average risk, Sadaps recommends that you start screening at age 45 and continue through age 75.
Stool tests offer a way for people with an average risk of colorectal cancer to screen at home. The fecal immunochemical test (FIT) checks for blood in stool and usually requires yearly testing. FIT-DNA tests check for blood and abnormal DNA and can be prescribed every one to three years. If either test returns a positive result, you’ll need a colonoscopy for further examination.
“Colonoscopy really is the gold standard for screening,” Sadaps says. “That’s because it’s a preventative tool that lets providers examine the colon directly and remove precancerous polyps immediately rather than simply detecting a potential problem as stool tests do.”
Pay attention to changes
Any change in your bowel habits deserves immediate attention, especially blood in your stool. Sadaps says you should also be alert to changes in stool shape, size or frequency. Other possible warning signs include ongoing abdominal pain or cramping, diarrhea and constipation, bloating, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, fatigue and shortness of breath.
“Unfortunately, a lot of symptoms of cancer are very nonspecific,” Sadaps says, which can make it easy to put off calling your doctor. Don’t assume that persistent or unusual symptoms are simply part of getting older; ask your healthcare provider about them.
Practical steps to lowering your colorectal cancer risk include regular screening tests, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, avoiding tobacco, eating more fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and cutting back on red and processed meats. Sadaps favors a balanced approach to eating rather than overly strict rules. “I always say a well-rounded meal is a good meal,” she says.
The most important factors, according to Sadaps, are knowing your family history, staying current with screening and speaking up if you experience any symptoms. That discussion could make a meaningful difference to your health.
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