COLORECTAL CANCER

What is colorectal cancer? Are you at risk? Colon and rectal cancer develop in the digestive tract, also called the gastrointestinal or GI tract. In Michigan, colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancers diagnosed in men and women.

Colorectal cancers are thought to develop slowly over a period of several years. Before a true cancer develops, there are often precancerous changes in the lining of the colon or rectum. These changes, known as dysplasia or a polyp, could eventually become a cancer.

Risk factors for colorectal cancer include a family or personal history of polyps or colon cancer, a diet that is high in fat, low physical activity, and obesity. The risk of this type of cancer also increases with age. The majority of the cases occur in men and women age 50 and older. All racial and ethnic groups are at risk for colorectal cancer. African Americans are more likely to be diagnosed with the disease at a more advanced stage and are more likely to die from the cancer once diagnosed. Risk can be lowered by limiting fat in the diet and eating more fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly can also lower risk for colorectal cancer.

Screening tests can prevent some cancers by early detection. Polyps may be removed or dysplasia treated at an early stage. Many health care insurance plans, including Medicare, provide coverage for these screening tests.

For more information on colorectal cancer testing, contact your doctor or the Genesee County Health Department at (810) 257-3817.

'05 Colorectal Screening Project Reports