SRHS - Oncology Information

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Colorectal Cancer Information

*What is Colorectal Cancer?*	*Prevention & Detection*
Before you can launch an effective battle against colorectal cancer, it’s important to understand some basics. In this section, you’ll find answers that help you move forward with a solid grounding in the facts, including information about: What Colorectal Cancer is Symptoms	Beginning at age 50, both men and women should follow one of these five testing schedules: Yearly fecal occult blood test (FOBT) Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years Yearly fecal occult blood test plus flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years Double-contrast barium enema every 5 years Colonoscopy every 10 years People at increased risk (e.g., Family history, genetic tendency, past colon cancer) should undergo colorectal cancer screening earlier and/or more often.
*Risk Factors*	*Treatment*
The following risk factors increase the chance of developing Colorectal Cancer: A family history of colorectal cancer Age: Over 50 years. More than 90% of people with colorectal cancer are older than 50. Genetic risk factors Ethnic background: Jews of Eastern European descent (Ashkenazi Jews) are thought to have a higher rate of colorectal cancer. Personal history of colorectal cancer Personal history of colorectal polyps or chronic inflammatory bowel disease Physical inactivity Obesity: If you are very overweight, your risk of dying of colorectal cancer is increased. Diabetes: People with diabetes have a 30% to 40% increased chance of developing colorectal cancer. Smoking: Recent studies indicate that smokers are 30% to 40% more likely than nonsmokers to die from colorectal cancer. Alcohol intake: Colorectal cancer has been linked to the heavy use of alcohol.	In recent years, there's been an explosion of life-saving treatment advances against breast cancer, bringing new hope and excitement. Instead of only one or two options, today there's an overwhelming menu of treatment choices that fight the complex mix of cells in each individual cancer. The decisions—surgery, then perhaps radiation, hormonal (anti-estrogen) therapy, and/or chemotherapy—can feel overwhelming. Overview of Options What types of treatment are available and which might be appropriate for you.
*Additional Resources*	Classes
American Cancer Society (ACS) Phone: 1-800-ACS-2345 (1-800-227-2345) National Cancer Institute (NCI) Phone: 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237)	View the many classes that Southern Regional offers on cancer.

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