If you’re undecided about getting screened for colorectal cancer, make sure you have all the facts about the disease. Don’t let these myths mislead you:
- Myth: Colorectal cancer is a man's disease. Truth: Colorectal cancer is just as common among women as men.
- Myth: Colorectal cancer cannot be prevented. Truth: In many cases colorectal cancer can be prevented. Colorectal cancer almost always starts with a small growth called a polyp. If the polyp is found early, doctors can remove it and stop colorectal cancer before it starts.
- Myth: African Americans are not at risk for colorectal cancer. Truth: African-American men and women are diagnosed with and die from colorectal cancer at higher rates than men and women of any other US racial or ethnic group.
- Myth: Age doesn't matter when it comes to getting colorectal cancer. Truth: More than 90 percent of colorectal cancer cases are in people age 50 and older. People who are at a higher risk for colorectal cancer -- for example, those who have colon or rectal cancer in their families -- may need to begin testing at a younger age.
- Myth: It's better not to get tested for colorectal cancer because it's deadly anyway. Truth: Colorectal cancer is often highly treatable. “When detected early, the five-year survival rate is 90 percent,” said Dr. Enrique Hernandez, president American Cancer Society, Pennsylvania Division. “But only 39 percent of colorectal cancers are diagnosed at this stage, primarily due to low screening rates.”
Colorectal cancer screening rates in Pennsylvania are lower than most other states. More than 2,500 Pennsylvanians will die of colon cancer this year.
To help lower your chances of getting colorectal cancer:
- Get to and stay at a healthy weight.
- Be physically active.
- Limit the amount of alcohol you drink.
- Eat a diet with a lot of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and less red or processed meat.
- Talk with your doctor about when you should start being tested.
Source: American Cancer Society