How to Celebrate National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March

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By Coach4U
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See your doctor for screening advice

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. A good way to celebrate it is to read and heed some information about Colon Cancer. Colon Cancer is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. When detected early, colon cancer has a 90% survival rate. Early stages of colon cancer have few if any symptoms or warning signs. The only way to detect colon cancer is to be screened for it.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Knowledge about colon cancer
Willingness to get screened
Doctor's advice

Step 1

Being screened for colon cancer makes sense

Some people are embarrassed to be screened for colon cancer because one of the screening tests involves having a scope inserted into the rectum. Polyps are found like this and they can be removed before they turn into cancer. When I turned 50; my doctor suggested I get screened for colon cancer. My first reaction was, no way! After I talked with a lady, whose husband had died as a result of colon cancer, I decided that maybe it was a good idea. For me, the testing wasn’t uncomfortable at all.
Step 2

Every nine minutes someone in America dies of colon cancer; don’t let that be you or someone you love. Encourage people you know to get tested if they have any of the risk factors involved.
Step 3

If you are 50 years old or older you need to talk to your doctor about being screened for colon cancer. Age is a risk factor in. If your family has a history of colon cancer or polyps you need to be tested. If you experience any of the following symptoms: blood in your stools, abdominal discomfort, constant tiredness, or changes in bowel habits you should see your doctor. These symptoms can be caused by a lot of different things, but it is best if your doctor advises you.
Step 4

Eat your fruits and vegetables

Some of the ways to lower your risk of colon cancer is to know your family’s health history, but especially any history of cancer. Exercise at least five times a week for 30 minutes each day. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Try to maintain an ideal body weight. Avoid tobacco; if you smoke try to quit.