Colorectal Cancer: What You Need to Know

Colorectal cancer affects Ohioans at a higher rate than the rest of the United States. It is diagnosed in over 5,600 Ohioans each year and takes the lives of over 2,100. However, colorectal cancer can be preventable through lifestyle changes, and if found early, it can be treated successfully.

"These numbers are striking," said Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, Director at the Ohio Department of Health. "But there are many steps we can take today to prevent colon cancer tomorrow."

Prevention

While many risk factors for colorectal cancer are genetic, there are still ways to prevent it.

• Aim for a healthy body weight. Research shows that a healthy weight can lower your risk of colorectal cancer. Living an active lifestyle and prioritizing healthy foods at mealtimes can help.
• Get some exercise! Being physically active lowers the risk of developing polyps. Maintaining an exercise routine that varies in intensity may help prevent colorectal cancer. You don't need to run a marathon, but adding some walks to your day could make a huge difference.
• Make whole foods part of your meal plan. Incorporating more fruits, veggies, and whole grains into your diet may lower your risk, and are an excellent source of fiber, which can aid in colorectal cancer prevention.
• Limit your alcohol intake. It's no secret that alcohol can have many negative impacts on your health. Limiting your alcohol intake - either by not drinking or limiting to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men - can help reduce your risk.
• Smoking. Smoking increases many health risks. It's best to not smoke or vape, but if you do, it's not too late to stop! If you smoke, and need assistance quitting, visit the Ohio Tobacco Quit Line, Quit for Life, or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669).

Early Detection and Screening

Early detection is key! In Ohio, 92% of people diagnosed with colorectal cancer at an early (local) stage survive five years or more. On the other hand, only 17% of Ohioans diagnosed at a late (distant) stage survive five years or more. This is why talking to your provider about colorectal cancer screenings is crucial to survival.

Screening can find precancerous polyps, which can be removed before they turn into cancer, as well as find colorectal cancer in early stages, when treatment works best. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and the American Cancer Society recommend that adults aged 45 to 75 be screened.

There are several different screening tests that can be used to find polyps or colorectal cancer. Talk to your healthcare provider about which test is best for you.

"If we work hard to prioritize our health, we can not only understand the risks but reduce them and take action to prevent colorectal cancer from developing," said Dr. Vanderhoff.

Additional Resources