One way to protect yourself from colorectal cancer is to know the symptoms and when to get checked. When colorectal cancer first develops, you may not have any noticeable signs. If you do have colorectal cancer symptoms, they might be very similar to other common digestive diseases, from infections to irritable bowel syndrome.
Early symptoms of colorectal cancer tend to be related to your digestive system. In rectal cancer, rectal bleeding or blood in the stool is one of the most common symptoms, while colon cancer may cause changes in bowel habits or abdominal cramping. As colorectal cancer reaches its later stages, you may have symptoms that affect your whole body, like fatigue or weight loss.
It's important to listen to your body and talk to your doctor when something feels off with your digestive system. It's common to suffer from digestive upset from time to time, but you should pay attention if you have ongoing symptoms or discomfort. While the cause of your symptoms may not be colorectal cancer, a healthcare professional can help you understand what is wrong.
Visit your doctor if you have any persistent symptoms such as:
Colorectal cancer occurs when abnormal cells in your colon or rectum multiply and grow rapidly. In most cells, specific genes control how they divide and stay functional. However, if these genes undergo mutations, they might not function properly. This could lead to the formation of cancer. Studies are ongoing to understand why this happens in some people, but researchers have found several factors that increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
Several factors increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer. In some cases, you can take steps to control or reduce your risk factors, but some may not be within your control. By knowing your risk factors for colorectal cancer and talking with your doctor, you’ll have the information you need to make choices to protect yourself—such as lifestyle changes or routine screenings.
You can take steps to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer. Through routine screenings, you can often stop colorectal cancer before it starts. Because of the many screening options available to suit your needs, colorectal cancer is considered one of the most preventable types today.
Many factors affect your risk for colorectal cancer and some lifestyle factors are within your control. Healthy dietary choices, regular physical activity, limiting alcohol consumption and quitting smoking are all preventive actions. If you’re ready to take charge of colorectal cancer prevention, talk with your doctor about your next steps.
Following your doctor’s guidance on colorectal screening is one of the best ways to prevent colorectal cancer. If you have an average risk of colorectal cancer, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends starting colorectal screenings at 45.
From stool-based tests to endoscopic procedures like colonoscopy, the guidelines for screening include several options. How often you need screening will depend on which test you choose.
In general, the guidelines recommend the following timing for each type of screening test:
If you have any factors that put you at a higher risk of colorectal cancer, you should talk with your doctor about starting screening sooner. People with risk factors often need screenings earlier and more often. They’re also more likely to need a specific screening type, usually a colonoscopy.
While we don’t know every factor that might increase your risk of colorectal cancer, there are some actions you can take to reduce your risk. Consider focusing on these healthy habits and talk to your doctor for guidance on living well.
