As the nation marks the eighth annual National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March, the American
Cancer society (ACS) is raising awareness that this third most common cause of cancer and cancer death in both
men and women in the United States is largely preventable. About 30,000 lives a year could be saved if everyone
over 50 got screened for colorectal cancer.
Despite overwhelming evidence that screening tests can save lives, many Americans still are not following
recommendations from the ACS and others for early detection. Perhaps the least understood and most compelling
aspect of colon cancer is the fact that colon cancer can be stopped before it starts if precancerous polyps are found
and removed, there-by avoiding the disease completely.
Early colon cancer often has no symptoms, which is why testing is so important. Getting tested is especially critical
for Americans age 50 and over as more than 90 percent of colon cancer cases are diagnosed in people over the age
of 50.
When colon cancer is detected at an early stage, it has a 90 percent survival rate. Still, fewer than four in 10 (39
percent) of these cancers are discovered at this stage. According to the ACS, increasing colon cancer screening
among adults 50 and over represents the single greatest opportunity to decrease colon cancer death rates in this
country.
The reasons for low testing rates include many misconceptions. Many people assume only those with a family
history of the disease are at increased risk, the majority of cases occur in people whose only risk factor is their age,
so everyone over 50 should b tested. Others think testing is necessary only once symptoms arise. Yet symptoms
are often a sign that the disease has progressed into more advanced stages. Testing is most effective when a
patient has no signs of illness. There are several colorectal cancer early detection tests, so talk to your doctor
about your family history and screening options.
The ACS is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering, and
preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy, and service. For more information call (800) ACS-2345
or visit www.cancer.org
February/March 2007 St. Louis Women's Journal
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