Tips On…Cancer of the Colon and Rectum (Colorectal Cancer)

The American Cancer Society recommends three tests as valuable aids in detecting colon and rectal cancer early in people without symptoms:

• A physician should perform a digital rectal exam during an office visit every year after age 50
• Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) is recommended every year after age 50. One of the earliest signs of colorectal cancer is often occult (hidden) blood in the stool.
• Screening sigmoidoscopy every three to five years after age 50. This is an exam of the rectum and lower colon using a sigmoidoscope. The physician looks through a thin, lighted tube to check for polyps, tumors or other abnormalities.

Preventive Measures

• Decrease fat in the diet
• Increase fiber (bulk) in diet, such as whole grains, bran, fresh fruits and vegetables
• Yearly physical exam by your physician.