March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: What to Know

Pictured above is Ibrahim Adamu, M.D., general surgeon who specializes in colon and rectal surgery, with Piedmont Physicians Surgical Specialists Newnan.

From Piedmont Newnan Hospital Press Release

March is national colorectal cancer awareness month. Piedmont Oncology physicians want to educate people about the disease and what you can do to decrease your risk of developing it or enable an earlier, more curable diagnosis.

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in the United States. More than half of all colorectal cancers can be link to preventable risk factors like body weight, lack of physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption and diet.

The American Cancer Society recommends people start regular screenings at age 45 and continue through age 75. People at high-risk based on family history or other factors should start before age 45. Not all colorectal cancer cases can be prevented but there are ways to lower your risk.

“Get screened regularly by having a colonoscopy or using an at-home test kit based on your primary care provider’s suggestion,” says Ibrahim Adamu, M.D., general surgeon who specializes in colon and rectal surgery, with Piedmont Physicians Surgical Specialists Newnan. “Changing behaviors like exercising regularly, following a healthy diet, limiting alcohol consumption and stopping smoking or using tobacco products will greatly help.”

Many colorectal cancers do not cause symptoms in early stages so it can be difficult to detect without screenings. Common signs and symptoms may include blood in the stool, change in bowel habits or stool appearance, stomach cramping or pain, poor appetite, unexplained weight loss or weakness.

“Innovative colorectal cancer treatment options depend on a number of factors but may include chemotherapy, immunotherapy or radiation therapy,” Dr. Adamu says. “Piedmont Oncology specialists will be there for patients in their time of need to provide a high-quality cancer treatment plan.”

Visit Piedmont.org/cancer for more information about cancer care and supportive services at Piedmont.