Thank you for visiting CCACCHealth.org. CCACC has put efforts in raising the public’s awareness of the importance of preventive care. In March 2021, we will promote colorectal cancer screening.
Colorectal cancer which is also referred to as colon cancer is cancer that occurs in the large intestine and the rectum which is the passageway that connects the colon to the anus. Sometimes small, benign clumps of cells called polyps can be formed on the inside of the colon or rectum. Over time these polyps can become colon cancers. Colon cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. 60% of colon cancer deaths could be prevented with screening.
Risk of getting colorectal cancer increases with aging. According to the CDC, About 90% of colon cancer cases occur in people who are 50 years old or older. The Risk of developing colon cancer is higher if you have a family history of colon cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. Low fiber and high-fat diet, lack of physical activity, high BMI, smoking, and heavy alcohol intake also increase the risk of colon cancer.
The U.S. Preventive Services task force recommends adults aged 50 to 75 be screened for colon cancer using screening tests including stool tests, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, and CT colonoscopy. Colonoscopy can find polyps so they can be removed before turning into cancer.
At CCACC, we will help you identify your risk factors for colon cancer and refer you for colonoscopy based on your age and risk factors. We also provide a free FIT test that detects blood in the stool for Montgomery care patients and provides relevant blood work for uninsured patients.
Most insurance covers preventive care including colon cancer screening for patients aged 50 and older and for patients who have increased risks for colon cancer. If you are older than 50 and have not screened for colorectal cancer, or if you have symptoms including blood in the stool, persistent stomach pain or cramps, or unintentional weight loss, call us today and be screened.
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