In observance of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Lake Regional Health System will offer free fecal occult blood test kits throughout March. The kits are used to detect hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of several conditions, including colon cancer.
Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon or rectum and occurs equally in men and women. It develops from polyps — small clumps of cells that form on the colon lining — which can be detected and removed before they become cancerous.
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the third leading cause of cancer death in the United States. It is estimated that more than 148,000 men and women were diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2008, and approximately 50,000 individuals died from the disease. If detected early, however, it is one of the most curable cancers.
Individuals ages 50 and older are at particular risk of developing colorectal cancer. Other risk factors include tobacco use, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle, as well as a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or benign (not cancerous) colorectal polyps, inflammatory bowel disease and inherited colorectal cancer.
To reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer, physicians recommend regular physical activity and exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, consuming foods high in fiber and calcium, limiting red meat and avoiding processed meats. Smoking cessation and limited consumption of alcohol also are advised.
Screenings are recommended for most people beginning at age 50 or when symptoms appear, including changes in bowel movements, rectal cramping and/or bleeding, dark patches of blood in the stool, abdominal discomfort or bloating, unexplained fatigue, loss of appetite and/or weight loss or pelvic pain. However, those at greater risk may need to begin screenings at an earlier age. Common screening options include colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy and fecal occult blood tests.
To request your free test kit, visit lakeregional.com or call 573-348-8236. For more information on colorectal cancer and screening options, talk with your primary care provider. If you do not have a primary care provider, visit lakeregional.com or call Lake Regional Health System’s Physician Referral Line at 573-348-8385 for a list of physicians in your area.
Osage Beach, Mo. —
