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Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Did You Know 

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States (excluding skin cancer).

  • This year, 102,480 new cases of colon cancer and 40,340 new cases of rectal cancer are expected in the U.S.
  • You have an estimated 1 in 20 chance of developing colorectal cancer.
  • Colorectal cancer can be prevented with regular screenings, including colonoscopy.
  • There are more than one million colorectal cancer survivors in the U.S.
         *Statistics are according to the American Cancer Society.

     

     

    Learn Your Risk
    Colorectal cancer is defined as cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. Before cancer develops, a growth of tissue usually begins as a non-cancerous polyp. Some polyps can change into cancer, but not all do.

    Several risk factors can increase your chances of developing colorectal cancer:

    • Over 50 years old
    • History of colorectal polyps
    • History of inflammatory bowel disease
    • Family history of colorectal cancer
    • Race and ethnicity (African Americans have highest rate of colorectal cancer)
    • Type 2 diabetes
    • Diet high in red and processed meats (beef, lamb, liver, hot dogs, some luncheon meats)
    • Physical inactivity
    • Obesity
    • Smoking
    • Heavy alcohol use

    For tips on how to maintain good colon health, visit our Rex Cancer Connects Blog.

    Get Screened Regularly 

    One of the keys to protecting yourself from colorectal cancer is to get colonoscopy screenings regularly once you reach 50 years old. Colonoscopy is a procedure than can find pre-cancerous cells or polyps and remove them before they turn into cancer. Most colorectal cancers develop slowly over several years.

    Men and women who have no identified risk factors should begin screenings at age 50. Those who have a family history or other risk factors should talk with their doctor about starting screening at a younger age and getting screened more frequently.

    Do you need to schedule a colonoscopy? Call Rex HealthNet at (919) 784-4493 for a physician referral.

     

    Colorectal Cancer Treatment at Rex

     

    Experts Here to Help

    Rex Cancer Center is certified by the American College of Surgeons as a comprehensive community cancer center and offers the latest technologies to treat colorectal cancer. We provide patients and families with educational programs, screening opportunities, support groups, counseling and clinical trials.

    Our experts work as a team to provide multidisciplinary care. They collaborate with each other to determine the best course of treatment and to coordinate your care from start to finish. Our dedicated gastrointestinal patient navigator teaches patients about their disease and assists them in obtaining resources needed during their care.

    Learn more about our specialists:

    Brothers and Sisters of Rex

    Brothers and Sisters of Rex is a program that shares information about breast, prostate and colorectal cancers in the community. The group is made up of both men and women – brothers and sisters – and is dedicated to taking care of each other and empowering you with the knowledge to take care of yourself and your family.

    Share the message. Save a life. Become a member today by calling (919) 784-6247 or learn more about Rex Cancer Center Outreach programs.

    More Cancer Links