Colorectal Cancer is the 5th Leading Cause of Death in the USA

HDH offers the full range of GI endoscopy services utilizing board certified gastroenterologists colorectal surgeons and state-of-the-art technology with the latest advances seen in much larger facilities and GI labs. From diagnosis, treatment, and intervention, we offer a continuum of care provided by caring and competent staff in a comfortable environment in an outpatient setting. Contact us to learn more.

Myths

  • Colorectal cancer is a “man’s disease.” Fact: Each year 71,000 men are diagnosed and 64,000 women are diagnosed.
  • Colorectal cancer cannot be prevented. Fact: Colorectal cancer begins frequently with the growth of a very small polyp. When found early and removed, the polyp cannot progress into colon cancer.
  • African Americans are not at risk. Fact: African Americans die at higher rates from colorectal cancer than any other ethnicity.
  • Age doesn’t matter. Fact: Most colorectal cancers are diagnosed in those fifty years of age and higher. Screening is typically advised at age fifty BUT only in the absence of symptoms and family history. Screening will almost certainly begin earlier if either of these two factors are present.
  • Colorectal cancer cannot be treated. Fact: It is highly treatable and if discovered early, the five year survival rate is around 90%.

Screening and Testing Methods

  • Guaiac stools or a test to determine if blood is present in a bowel movement
  • Colonoscopy
  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy
  • Contrast barium enema
  • Virtual colonoscopy or CT colonography

Treatment Options

  • Surgery to remove part or all of any given section of diseased colon.
  • Radiation
  • Chemotherapy
  • A combination of more than one of the above options

Signs and Symptoms

  • A change in bowel habits, such as constipation or a narrowing of the bowel movement
  • A feeling that you have to have a BM that is NOT relieved by doing so
  • Rectal bleeding
  • Abdominal cramping
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Unintended weight loss

Who Treats Colorectal Cancer?

  • Surgical oncologist
  • Colorectal surgeon
  • Radiation oncologist
  • Medical oncologist

Prevention

  • Maintain a healthy weight without being underweight
  • Exercise
  • Eat 2.5 cups of fruits/vegetables every day
  • Opt for whole grain foods versus refined grains
  • Limit red and processed meats
  • For women, limit alcohol intake to one drink a day; for men, two drinks
  • Avoid nicotine products of ANY kind

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