Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a serious health concern that affects countless individuals and families across the United States. In Arizona, it ranks as the fourth most frequently diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death. Recent statistics (from 2017 to 2021) reveal that an average of 2,796 residents are diagnosed with invasive colorectal cancer every year, translating to a concerning rate of 32.1 cases per 100,000 people.

March serves as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, providing an important opportunity to shine a light on this potentially life-threatening disease and emphasize the critical roles of screening and early detection.

Understanding Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer can originate in both the colon and the rectum, usually starting as a benign polyp. If not detected and treated in time, these polyps can evolve into malignant tumors. The challenge with CRC lies in its often asymptomatic early stages, thereby making regular screenings indispensable.

Key Warning Signs of CRC Include:

- Significant changes in bowel habits - Presence of blood in or on stool - Persistent diarrhea or constipation, or a feeling of incomplete bowel emptying - Ongoing abdominal discomfort, such as pain or cramps - Unexplained weight loss

The Alarming Rise of Colorectal Cancer Cases

The American Cancer Society (ACS) forecasts that by 2025, there will be 107,320 new colon cancer diagnoses alongside 46,950 new rectal cancer cases. The anticipated deaths from colorectal cancer are projected to reach approximately 52,900 this year. The lifetime risk of developing CRC is about 1 in 24 for men and 1 in 26 for women, with the troubling trend of increasing CRC mortality rates among individuals under 55 reflecting a 1% annual rise since the mid-2000s.

How to Reduce Your Risk: Screening and Lifestyle Modifications

Regular screenings are the most reliable method to mitigate the risk of colorectal cancer. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force advises that average-risk adults begin screening at age 45 and keep going until age 75. For those aged 76 to 85, screening choices should be individually tailored in consultation with a healthcare provider. Individuals with heightened risk factors, such as family history or certain genetic conditions, may need to start screenings even earlier.

Screening procedures can help identify and remove precancerous polyps before they transition into cancerous growths. The impact of early detection on survival rates is profound: the five-year relative survival rate reaches 91% for localized colon cancer and 90% for localized rectal cancer. Conversely, if the cancer has already metastasized, survival rates plummet to just 13% for colon cancer and 18% for rectal cancer.

Make Changes Today

In addition to screenings, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly lower your risk of colorectal cancer. Regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, limiting red and processed meats, and avoiding tobacco can all contribute to better health outcomes.

Stay informed and proactive—screenings can save lives, and early detection remains the best defense against colorectal cancer. Don't wait; scheduling your screening could be the vital step in safeguarding your health!