Colorectal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer locally, in Michigan, and throughout the United
States.* The American Cancer Society recommends most people get a colonoscopy starting at age 45.
Understanding your colorectal cancer risks and family history is a key to staying healthy.
Factors that can put you at higher risk for colorectal cancer:
- If you have a family history of colon cancer,
rectal cancer or polyps, you may need to be
tested earlier and more often.
- Your heritage, African Americans have the
highest incidence and death rates from
colon cancer in the United States.
- Personal history of inflammatory
bowel disease.
- Type 2 diabetes.
Regardless of your age, be aware of colorectal
cancer symptoms and pay attention to
changes such as:
- Cramping or stomach pain
- Unintended weight loss
- Rectal bleeding with bright red blood
- A change in bowel habits that lasts more
than a few days
- Feeling like you need to have a bowel
movement after you have had one
- Weakness and fatigue
If you experience any of these symptoms or have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps,
growths that can turn into cancer over time, talk with your health care provider.
Be Proactive and Talk to Your Doctor About Screening
Adults often choose to avoid scheduling a colonoscopy. Some do not want to go through the all-day
laxative prep or are afraid the procedure is too painful or invasive.
“Newer preps require the patient to drink less fluid and I have been told they are tolerated much
better,” said Allison Hoch, DO, general surgeon, Corewell Health. “I always tell patients that the prep is
the hardest part and the day of colonoscopy, they get to relax and nap while I do the work.”
A Colonoscopy Can Detect Cancer and Other Diseases
While it may be tempting to delay a colonoscopy, it is recommended that you follow the colonoscopy
screening guidelines set by your doctor.
“Getting a colonoscopy is extremely important because it allows us to identify and remove pre-cancerous
lesions, preventing them from becoming colon cancer,” said Dr. Hoch. “This can decrease the likelihood
of patients needing to undergo a colectomy and potential chemotherapy.”
To learn more or to schedule a colonoscopy visit spectrumhealthlakeland.org/earlydetection.
*Marie Yeager Cancer Care Report, data collected in 2021.
Mar 9, 2023 Reporting from Niles, MI
The Longer You Wait, the Higher the Risk
https://www.spectrumhealthlakeland.org/health-wellness/ask-the-experts/ask-the-experts/2023/03/09/the-longer-you-wait-the-higher-the-risk
Mar 9, 2023
Mar 9, 2023
SpectrumHealth Lakeland
Colorectal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer locally, in Michigan, and throughout the United
States.* The American Cancer Society recommends most people get a colonoscopy starting at age 45.
Understanding your colorectal cancer risks and family history is a key to staying health
The Longer You Wait, the Higher the Risk
SpectrumHealth Lakeland
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