Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosis among both men and women in the U.S., with about 153,000 total new cases in 2023 alone. It's also the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., and was projected to claim about 53,000 lives in 2023 alone, according to the American Cancer Society. But survival rates have steadily ticked upwards for decades, thanks to early detection and widespread lifestyle changes.
Here are five key things to know about colorectal cancer:
1. Colorectal cancer is a catch-all term for cancers that originate in the colon or rectum. About 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women will develop colorectal cancer during their lifetime.
2. You can reduce your risk of developing colorectal cancer if you maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet that prioritizes fresh foods and limits red or processed meats, abstain from tobacco, and limit your alcohol consumption.
3. People with first degree relatives (parents, siblings, children) who have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps have a higher risk of developing cancer themselves. Some gene mutations, such as Lynch syndrome, are also linked with colorectal cancer in families.
4. Regular screening, such as a colonoscopy, is crucial to find colorectal cancer early or prevent it entirely. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends regular screening for all adults age 45 to 75. People with certain risk factors, like a family history of colorectal cancer, may need earlier and more frequent screenings.
5. Common colorectal cancer symptoms include blood in your stool, unusual diarrhea or constipation, feeling like your bowel does not fully empty, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss. Talk to your doctor right away if you notice any of these symptoms.
