Colorectal cancer — cancer of the colon or rectum — is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. More than 148,000 new cases of colorectal cancer are expected to be diagnosed this year and more than 56,000 people will die from this disease.
Colorectal cancer, which affects men and women at equally frequent rates, develops from precancerous growths called polyps. Removing these polyps is the most effective way to prevent the development of colorectal cancer.
Early Detection Screening
If you don't have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, the following is recommended for patients age 50 and older:
Risk
Prevention
About 90 percent of colorectal cancers and deaths are thought to be preventable. In addition to regular colorectal cancer screenings, exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce your risk of colorectal cancer.
To prevent colorectal cancer, the following is recommended: