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We provide a comprehensive continuum of cancer services, including prevention, outreach, diagnostic, treatment and support services delivered by our highly skilled staff with compassion and care.
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Can Colon Cancer Be Detected Early?
Published: Saturday, March 1, 2008
Despite its high incidence, colorectal cancer is one of the most detectable cancers and, if found early enough, one of the most treatable forms of cancer. More than 90% of those diagnosed while cancer is still localized, survive more than five years. Currently, however, only 37% of colorectal cancers are detected while still localized. Regular colon cancer screening such as with a colonoscopy combined with a healthy lifestyle can prevent more than 50 percent of all colon cancer deaths in the United States.
Don’t Wait For Symptoms
The most common symptom of colorectal cancer is no symptom at all. Colorectal cancer can be present in people without symptoms, known family history or predisposing conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease. Regular screening will help identify pre-cancerous polyps and colorectal cancer earlier.
Some colon cancer symptoms may include the following.
- A change in bowel habits
- Diarrhea, constipation or feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
- Blood (either bright red or very dark) in the stool
- Stools that are narrower than usual
- General abdominal discomfort (frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness and/or cramps)
- Weight loss with no known reason
- Constant tiredness
- Vomiting
If none of your relatives had colorectal cancer, the recommended age to start screening is 50. If you don’t know if your relatives had colorectal cancer, ask. Knowing your family history and getting the appropriate screening could save your life.
If colorectal cancer occurred in one first degree relative (a parent, sibling or child) or in two or more second degree relatives (an aunt, uncle or grandparent), screening should start at age 40 or 10 years before the age when your relative was diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
If you have inflammatory bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease or abdominal or intestinal polyps, you may be at higher risk for colorectal cancer and should talk with your doctor about an appropriate screening strategy.
For more information, visit gastroenterology or University Gastroenterology.
If your family has a history of colon cancer or you suspect you have any symptoms of colon cancer, call 1.877.UT.CARES (1.877.882.2737) to request an appointment.