Are you at risk for developing colorectal cancer (CRC)? Think you’re too young to worry about it? Think again.
This cancer has been affecting more and more young people in our community. CRC may emerge as the leading cause of cancer deaths among individuals under 50 in Louisiana by 2030.
It’s not too early to know about your colorectal cancer risk.
Screening starts at age 45 for most people. If you have a family history of this disease, you may need to get screened earlier. Now is the time to take action.
Ask your family members if colorectal cancer runs in your family. People with a history of colorectal cancer in a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) are more likely to get colorectal cancer. The risk is even higher if that relative was diagnosed with cancer when they were younger than age 50, or if more than one first-degree relative is affected.
Asking these questions now can save your life!
Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum as precancerous growths, called polyps, that can be removed during a colonoscopy. Colon cancer and rectal cancer are often grouped together because they have many features in common.
Unfortunately, Louisiana has the 5th highest colorectal cancer death rate in the United States. That is because we have more people who are at a higher risk due to family history or genetics and people don’t get screened on time. The good news? When caught early, patients with colorectal cancer have a 90% survival rate. Better yet, if you get screened, you can potentially avoid this type of cancer altogether!
There are many risk factors that might increase a person’s chance of developing colorectal cancer. One big one is genetics, or your family's history of colorectal cancer.
The reasons for this are not yet understood, but genetic factors (which are passed down in your family) may play a role in your colorectal cancer risk. People who have a family history of the disease should talk with their doctor to see if they need to be screened earlier than age 45. Knowing if this cancer runs in your family can save your life!
For individuals at average risk, it is recommended that you start getting screened at the age of 45. For those with above average risk or a family history of the disease, talk with your doctor to see when you should get screened.
There are several ways to get screened such as a colonoscopy and stool based tests. A colonoscopy is performed at a clinic every 5-10 years. Stool tests can be done at home every 1-3 years. If you get a positive stool test, you must get a colonoscopy. All tests are covered by insurance for those that are due. What’s most important is that you get screened regularly.
Education and awareness are keys when it comes to beating colorectal cancer. There are resources in your community you can rely on to help you make educated and informed decisions about screening and assessing your colorectal cancer risk.
American Cancer Society
Louisiana Cancer Prevention & Control Programs
Taking Aim at Cancer in Louisiana