Colorectal cancer is a common yet highly detectable form of cancer that affects both men and women. Being aware of your risk factors for colon cancer is vital to preventing and controlling it.
Risk factors include:
- Being over the age of 50
- Being of African-American or Eastern European descent
- Having a family history of the disease
- Having a personal history of Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis or colorectal polyps
Discuss any risk factors you may have with your doctor and ask when you should schedule a colonoscopy.
A colonoscopy is the best way to detect this type of cancer. The test checks the large intestine for ulcers, polyps and other abnormalities. Doctors recommend people over the age of 50 receive a colonoscopy. For those with increased risk factors, having one at a younger age may be recommended.
