Colorectal Cancer: Symptoms and the Value of Screening
Learn how colorectal screening can help individuals detect and even prevent the disease.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) isn’t a common topic of conversation for most adults. However, maybe it should be.
Recent statistics from the National Institutes of Health indicate CRC is the second most common cause of cancer-related death in the United States, and it ranks as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in adults younger than 50 years. Why?
CRC often begins without detectable symptoms. A person can feel healthy, have no obvious warning signs, and still have precancerous polyps or early cancer developing in the colon or rectum. Unfortunately, by the time symptoms are identified and an individual seeks medical attention, the cancerous lesions may have spread.
Colorectal Cancer Symptoms
According to the CDC’s symptoms guide and the American Cancer Society’s Signs and Symptoms page, common warning signs of CRC may include:
- changes in bowel habits.
- blood in or on the stool.
- diarrhea or constipation that doesn’t go away.
- abdominal “fullness”, pain, or cramping.
- unexplained weight loss, weakness, or fatigue.
These symptoms do not always mean cancer, but they should not be ignored. Consult your healthcare provider if you are experiencing prolonged or unexplained episodes of these symptoms.
While knowing the symptoms of CRC is important, knowing the value of screening may be even more important.
Why Screening Is So Valuable
Screening can detect precancerous cells and lesions before they become cancerous. It can also detect CRC early, when treatment tends to work best. Fortunately, a variety of screening options are available, which include blood tests, stool-based tests, CT scans, and direct visual exams.
Medical and public health experts agree that regular screening is an important part of preventive care for adults.
When Should Screening Begin?
For most adults, a baseline screening for colorectal cancer is recommended at age 45. Thereafter, your screening plan, including the screening type, frequency, and other follow-up recommendations, should be determined with your healthcare provider.
People with a history of inflammatory bowel disease or polyps, certain inherited conditions, or a family history of CRC may need screenings earlier or more often.
Remember – CRC screening is not always a one-step process. However, early intervention and available screening options give patients and providers flexibility to choose an individualized approach to meet that person’s needs.
Don’t Ignore the Symptoms
The Moultrie County Health Department encourages all adults to understand the importance of routine preventive colorectal cancer screening, even when there are no symptoms.
Screening can help detect cancer early or prevent its development by finding and addressing pre-cancerous lesions. For individuals with possible symptoms of CRC, timely screening and an honest conversation with your healthcare provider may save your life.