Gastroenterology Associates Offer Colorectal Cancer Detection

"Colorectal cancer is a common and lethal disease" says Dr. Timothy Edwards of Gastroenterology Associates of Cape Girardeau. He notes that approximately 150,000 new cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed yearly in the United States, and nearly 50,000 Americans will die from the disease annually. Overall, colorectal cancer is the third most common form of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the United States.

"Colorectal cancer is an equal opportunity cancer that affects men and women almost equally and occurs in all races and ethnicities" says Dr. Edwards. According to the American Cancer Society lifestyle habits that may put you at risk include: diabetes, smoking, alcohol use, being overweight, not exercising, and having a diet high in red and processed meat. However, the most significant risk factors for colorectal cancer are related to your age and family history of the disease.

"Two major risk factors for colorectal cancer are things beyond your control" says Dr. Edwards. "Having a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps strongly increases your lifetime risk of developing the disease. The other risk factor is advancing age beyond 50. As we age our risk of colorectal cancer continues to increase with each passing decade."

The key to beating the disease is catching it early or preventing it. Dr. Edwards suggests beginning screening at age 50 or at the age of 40 if there is a known family history of colorectal cancer or polyps.

Do your research early to find out if you may be at risk and always see your physician if you notice any warning signs such as a recent change in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, or unexplained weight loss.

"Colon cancer kills, but screening saves lives" says Dr. Edwards. "If everyone age 50 or over participated in appropriate screening, a very significant majority of deaths related to colorectal cancer could be prevented."

If you are interested in obtaining more information on colorectal cancer or appropriate screening strategies, please contact Gastroenterology Associates of Southeast Missouri at 573-334-8870 or visit our website at www.capegastro.com