March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of non-skin cancer in men and women. The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 150,000 new cases of colorectal cancers will be diagnosed in 2008.

“The good news is that deaths from colorectal cancer are declining due to increased awareness, and screenings help to catch the disease in its earliest and most curable stages,” said Stephen Shibata, MD, director of the gastrointestinal oncology program at City of Hope. “In addition to regular screening, it’s important to know your risk factors so you can make healthy lifestyle choices.”

Risk factors associated with colorectal cancer include:

• Personal history of colorectal cancer, bowel disease or polyps

• Family history of colorectal cancer

• Being older than 50 years of age

• Being overweight

• A diet of mostly high-fat foods

• Smoking and heavy use of alcohol

Dr. Shibata suggests making lifestyle changes that reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer, including exercising regularly; eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains; limiting the consumption of high-fat foods; not smoking; and moderating alcohol intake.

Some studies also suggest that taking supplements containing folic acid, folate or calcium might reduce colorectal cancer risk.

Since symptoms of the disease often do not appear until after the disease has advanced, regular screenings and knowledge of common risk factors are important.

Although colorectal cancer may not necessarily be the case, contact a physician if any of the following occur:

• An unusual change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation

• Bleeding from the rectum

• Blood in the stool

• Abdominal discomfort (gas, bloating, cramps)

• Continual fatigue and weakness

• Weight loss for no known reason

With state-of-the-art medical facilities, City of Hope focuses on the prevention, early detection, diagnosis and treatment for those individuals who are at risk for developing cancer or those individuals who have already been diagnosed and are looking for treatment opportunities.

For more information about colorectal cancer screening, treatment and research, contact City of Hope at (800) 826-HOPE or visit http://www.cityofhope.org.