March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

(and there is a good reason why you should be “aware” of it)

Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States. What makes this statistic so alarming is that it is one of the few cancers that are preventable with early detection. If nothing else this March, we want you to be aware of what you can do so that you can avoid becoming a statistic!

So why is the incidence of colorectal cancer on the rise (especially among younger people), and why does it cost so many American lives every year?

Some of it has to do with lifestyle. There is growing evidence that an unhealthy diet, being overweight and a lack of exercise contributes to early-onset colon cancer. A poor diet can trigger inflammation and the development of bacterial toxins in the gut. In fact, half of younger adults with colorectal cancer also have a chronic condition that causes gut inflammation, such as irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes and Crohn’s disease.

But the most important reason why colorectal cancer remains a leading cause of death is that so many people are avoiding the one test that gives them the best chance for early detection. According to the American Cancer Society, more than a third of those at risk avoid getting their colonoscopy.

Most insurance plans in the United States and Medicare now cover a colonoscopy for those over 45 years of age and at average risk for colon cancer. Since the passage of the Affordable Care Act, the majority of insurance plans are required to cover the cost of a colonoscopy without any copays or deductibles. Those at higher risk may be eligible for earlier and/or more frequent colonoscopies. For those who cannot have a colonoscopy, or who have had a failed colonoscopy, Eastern Radiologists performs a CT-based test called a virtual colonoscopy.

When a polyp is detected during a colonoscopy, it may be removed, and a tissue sample sent to a laboratory. Armed with the results, your doctor can help determine the best course of action for your follow-up care. Also, when a polyp is found and removed during a colonoscopy, it eliminates the risk of that polyp further developing into colon cancer. That means that you can actually reduce your risk for colon cancer simply by having a colonoscopy and a suspicious polyp removed.

Although colon cancer is on the rise in younger Americans, 90% of cases occur after the age of 50. So, if you’re over 50 and haven’t had your colonoscopy, or if it’s been 10 years or more since your last one, we urge you to talk to your doctor and schedule yours today.

Then, be sure to tell your friends and family to schedule theirs. Because if more people were screened for colorectal cancer, it would no longer be the leading cause of cancer death it is today.