Protect yourself with a no-cost colonoscopy

Your colon and rectum are the last part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, or digestive system. Colorectal cancer is cancer that occurs in the colon or rectum.

Most colon cancers begin as small abnormal growths of tissue called polyps that form in these areas of the digestive system. A polyp is not cancer, but it can change over time into cancer.

The cancer can start in different areas of the colon and rectum, and may cause different side effects. By the time most side effects appear, it is usually already growing. That makes it harder to treat.

Individuals with colorectal polyps or cancer may have no symptoms at all, especially at first. So it is important to get screened, pay attention to your body and be on the lookout for anything that is not normal.

Symptoms of colon cancer may include:

• Diarrhea, constipation or the feeling that the bowel has not emptied
• Unusually narrow stools
• A bloody stool
• Bloating, cramping, fullness and/or frequent gas pains
• Unexplained weight loss
• Continuous fatigue
• Vomiting

These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it's important to consult with your MedStar Health doctor to determine whether they are connected to colorectal cancer or some other serious condition.

Colon and GI cancers are much easier to treat if caught early. Additionally, if you have a family history of colon/GI cancer, talk to your doctor about regular screenings.

In the event you should receive a colon cancer diagnosis, your MedStar Healthcare team will proceed quickly to the treatment phase. Your doctor will discuss your treatment options with you.

Your treatment depends on the stage of your cancer, whether it has metastasized (spread), and on your general health. At MedStar Health, your colon/GI cancer team will carefully explain each treatment option, give you advice, and thoroughly support you throughout your treatment process.

Research has shown that people with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop colon cancer. Knowing your risks will help you and your doctor make the best health choices for you.

If you do have any of these risk factors, talk to your doctor. Your doctor may be able to suggest ways to reduce your risk, especially lifestyle factors that you can change.

Your age. More than 9 out of 10 colorectal cancers are found in people over 50.

Your race or background. If you are African-American or are Jewish with an Eastern European background you are at higher risk.

Your medical history. You are more likely to develop colorectal cancer if you have ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, Type 2 diabetes, or have had cancer in the past.

Your family’s medical history. If you have close family members with colorectal cancer, you may be more likely to get it, too. Also, some conditions passed down through families may increase your risk.

Your lifestyle. The links between diet, weight, and exercise, and colorectal cancer risk are some of the strongest for any type of cancer. Some evidence suggests that colon cancer may be associated with a diet that is high in fat and calories and low in foods with fiber, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.