Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is no stranger to our state. With approximately 800 new cases of colorectal cancer being diagnosed in New Mexico every year, raising community awareness of colorectal cancer is critical. Among cancers that affect both men and women, colorectal cancer is New Mexico’s second most frequently diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death.
That’s where screening comes in.
A colonoscopy is the most accurate screening test for cancers of the colon and rectum. Colonoscopy screening is effective because it can detect and remove precancerous polyps in the colon or rectum before they have a chance to develop into cancer.
It is recommended that men and women begin colon screening at age 50, since increasing age is the most significant risk factor in the development of colon cancer. More than 90% of colon cancer cases occur in men and women aged 50 and older.
Your health care provider may advise you to start screening at a younger age if you have a family history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer or if you have inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. A genetic syndrome such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome) can also increase a person’s risk of developing colon cancer and require earlier screening.
Although screening is most effective, men and women can help lower their risk by limiting alcohol, quitting smoking, getting at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity every week and maintaining a healthy weight.
Similar to heart disease, colon cancer is a silent killer. Precancerous polyps and colon cancer don’t always cause symptoms, which is why screening is so important. If you are experiencing blood in or on your stool, ongoing stomach pain and aches or unexpected weight loss, this could indicate colon cancer or another serious condition. Schedule an appointment with your health care provider immediately.
If you are over 50 or have a family history of colorectal cancer, talk to your doctor about getting screened today. To schedule your colonoscopy or a visit with a Lovelace Medical Group gastroenterologist, please call 505.727.7833.