Colorectal Cancer Awareness
March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. We encourage you to ask your questions and express your concerns to our healthcare professionals. Please, don't be embarrassed or avoid direct and open discussion of ANY issues you may be having. We're here to help, but can only do so if you let us. Your health is far too important to keep quiet!
Get Educated & Get Screened
Many patients report no symptoms prior to diagnosis. Be aware of any changes in your digestive habits. Colorectal Cancer symptoms include:
• Rectal bleeding
• Change in bowel habits
• Blood in your stool
• Abdominal or low back pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Anemia
Here are some additional important things to note about Colon Cancer:
• Colon Cancer (also called Colorectal Cancer) is one of the most common forms of cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. But no one likes to talk about it. Understanding the disease is important, not only for those who have been diagnosed with the disease, but also for individuals trying to prevent it as well.
• Colon Cancer is highly treatable. When found in its earliest stages, the 5-year survival rate is 90%.
• It affects men and women equally. 1 in 20 will be diagnosed in their lifetime.
• The chance of surviving Colon Cancer goes up with early treatment, but only 40% of colon cancers are found in the early stages. Screenings save lives!
• Colon Cancer starts with polyps, small growths which in time can turn cancerous. Testing helps your doctor find (and remove) these growths. Get screened!
• Age is not always a factor. 1 in 7 of those diagnosed are under the age of 50.
For more information on this or other health-related issues, contact us today at TalkToUs@ExpressCareShoals.com
