Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: What to Know
Each year, more than 150,000 Americans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, making it one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the United States. During Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March, Piedmont Athens Regional is raising awareness about risk factors, symptoms, prevention, and treatment options.
Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men and women in the United States. While overall incidence rates among older adults have stabilized, rates are increasing by about two percent per year among people younger than age 50. This shift has heightened concern among health experts, particularly because younger adults are often diagnosed later in the course of the disease.
The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk begin regular colorectal cancer screening at age 45 and continue through age 75. Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or other high-risk factors may need to begin screening earlier and should talk with their primary care provider to make a screening plan.
Screening plays a critical role in prevention and early detection. Many people experience no symptoms in the early stages, underscoring the importance of regular screening. When symptoms do occur, they may include blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits or stool appearance, abdominal pain or cramping, unexplained weight loss, weakness or fatigue. Roughly sixty percent of colorectal cancer cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, when treatment can be more complex.
Piedmont’s multidisciplinary cancer teams work closely with patients to deliver personalized, high-quality care throughout diagnosis and treatment. Treatment options for colorectal cancer depend on the stage of disease and individual patient factors. Care plans may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy or a combination of treatments.
While not all cases can be prevented, lifestyle changes can significantly reduce risk. Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, limiting alcohol intake and avoiding tobacco products are all associated with lower colorectal cancer risk.
For more information about cancer care and supportive services at Piedmont Athens Regional, visit piedmont.org/cancer.
