Colon Cancer Awareness

March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month

Oakland Medical Center wants you know about colon cancer, especially if you are over the age of 50, since the risk of this type of cancer rises as one ages. According to the National Institutes of Health, people are more likely to get colon or rectal cancers if they have colorectal polyps, a family history of colorectal cancer, ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, eat a diet high in fat, or smoke.

The NIH advises that symptoms of colorectal cancer include

Diarrhea or constipation
A feeling that your bowel does not empty completely
Blood (either bright red or very dark) in your stool
Stools that are narrower than usual
Frequent gas pains or cramps, or feeling full or bloated
Weight loss with no known reason
Fatigue
Nausea or vomiting

Screening tests are important for everyone over age 50. Check for blood in the stool and talk with your doctor about getting a colonoscopy.

Your Oakland Medical Center doctor can answer your questions about types of colon cancer and advise you on risks involved because of family history or lifestyle choices.