Three things everyone should know about colorectal cancer

DETROIT - New cases of colon and rectal cancers are occurring at an increasing rate among young and middle-aged adults throughout the U.S. And at just 47 years old, actor James Van Der Beek, known for his work in "Varsity Blues" and "Dawson's Creek," became part of that troubling statistic after recently revealing he has colorectal cancer. The father of six said he has been working while he navigates his care.

His announcement shines an important light on the disease, which can often be confused with typical gastrointestinal symptoms. It's slightly more common in men than women, but it's highly treatable when found early. That's why it's so important to get screened and talk to your doctor at the first sign of symptoms or problems.

Dr. Craig Reickert, M.D., division head of Colon and Rectal Surgery at Henry Ford Health Cancer, shares three things everyone should know about colorectal cancer, which is the fourth most common form of cancer in the U.S.

Signs to look for:
Colon cancer starts as colon polyps which are abnormal growths on the wall of your colon. Most polyps are harmless, but some contain cancerous cells that can grow into malignant tumors and spread.

Symptoms of colon cancer may include:

• Blood in your stool or bleeding from your rectum
• Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
• Cramping or pain in your abdomen
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pressure in your abdomen that isn't relieved by a bowel movement
• Unintentional weight loss
• Weakness and fatigue

Age for screening:
Because the rate of colorectal cancer is rising in young people, the American Cancer Society recommends that those with average risk of colorectal cancer start screenings at age 45, instead of the previously recommended age 50. The gold standard for screening is colonoscopy. However, there are at-home screening kits that involve little-to-no prep; all you have to do is send stool samples to a lab.


Family history:
Knowing your sister recently had a pre-cancerous polyp removed from her colon, or that your father began getting colonoscopies at age 40 because of Crohn's disease, may impact the timing for when you begin regular screenings for colon cancer, Dr. Reickert said.

First-degree relatives - that includes parents, siblings and children - of people who have had colorectal cancer or polyps are twice or three times as likely to develop polyps and colon or rectal cancer.

"Those with a family history of colon polyps or colon cancer often need to start colon cancer screening before the recommended age of 45, and/or should be screened more frequently than people who are at average risk," said Dr. Reickert.

If you are concerned about any of these symptoms or risk factors, speaking to your physician promptly is the best first step.


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