Colorectal Cancer Awareness – Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters Benefit Funds

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Colorectal cancer, also known as bowel cancer, colon cancer, or rectal cancer, is any cancer that affects the colon and the rectum. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, and the third for men. However, due to advances in screening techniques and improvements in treatments, the death rate from colorectal cancer has been falling. Colorectal cancer, as with most cancers, is easiest to treat when caught early. Getting regular screenings at the recommended age can catch a mutation before its too late. If you have a family history of cancer, talk with your doctor about getting screened earlier than recommended.

Recommended Colorectal Screening : Age 45+ for both men & women. Screenings are covered 100% through Independence Administrators once per plan year for eligible participants.

Colorectal Cancer Facts

81% of adults who have never been screened are people aged 50 to 64 years.

141,425 new cases of Colorectal cancer were reported in 2017*

52,547 people died of this cancer in 2017*

*2017 is the latest year for which incidence data are available

Symptoms:

changes in bowel habits
diarrhea or constipation
blood in feces that makes stools look black
bright red blood coming from the rectum
pain and bloating in the abdomen
a feeling of fullness in the abdomen
fatigue or tiredness
unexplained weight loss
unexplained iron deficiency

It is important to see a doctor if symptoms persist for 4 weeks or more.

Prevention:

Regular screenings: People who have had colorectal cancer before, who are 45 years of age or older, who have a family history of this type of cancer, or who have Crohn’s disease, Lynch syndrome, or adenomatous polyposis should have regular screenings.
Nutrition: Follow a diet with plenty of fiber, fruit, vegetables, and good quality carbohydrates and a minimum of red and processed meats. Switch from saturated fats to good quality fats, such as avocado, olive oil, fish oils, and nuts.
Exercise: Moderate, regular exercise has been shown to have a significant impact on lowering a person’s risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Bodyweight: Being overweight or obese raises the risk of many cancers, including colorectal cancer.