The passing of Chadwick Boseman, the talented actor best known for his portrayal of the superhero Black Panther, at the age of 43 came as a surprise and shock to many. For a seemingly healthy, relatively young man to die from colorectal cancer seems almost incomprehensible.
But while colorectal cancer isn’t as common in people under the age of 50 as it is in older people, it’s not as uncommon as many people might think. In 2020, about 12% of colorectal cancers – about 18,000 cases – will be diagnosed in people under the age of 50 in the US. What’s more, while rates of colorectal cancer have been falling in older age groups in recent years, they’ve actually been rising among younger people.
Risk is higher in African Americans
Colorectal cancer also disproportionately affects the Black community, where the rates are the highest of any racial/ethnic group in the US. African Americans are about 20% more likely to get colorectal cancer and about 40% more likely to die from it than most other groups.
Screening can help find – and even prevent – some colorectal cancers
People at higher risk for colorectal cancer should talk with their doctor about whether starting screening earlier might be right for them. This includes people with:
- A family history of colorectal cancer or certain types of polyps
- A personal history of colorectal cancer or certain types of polyps
- A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease)
- A known or suspected family history of a hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome
- A personal history of radiation to the abdomen (belly) or pelvic area to treat a prior cancer
Different types of tests can be used to screen for colorectal cancer. Colonoscopy is one of these, but other tests, some of which can be done at home, are also good options, especially during the pandemic. Screening can often prevent colorectal cancer by finding and removing growths called polyps in the colon and rectum, before they have a chance to become cancer. Screening can also find colorectal cancer early, when it is still small, hasn't spread, and is likely to be easier to treat.
Know the possible symptoms of colorectal cancer
The most common symptoms of colorectal cancer include:
- A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool, that lasts for more than a few days
- A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that's not relieved by having one
- Rectal bleeding
- Blood in the stool, which might make the stool look dark brown or black
- Cramping or pain in the abdomen (belly)
- Feeling tired or weak
- Losing weight without trying
Many of these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions. But if you have any of them, especially if they last for more than a few days or are getting worse, it’s important to have them checked out by a doctor as soon as possible so the cause can be found and treated, if needed.
Screening (testing for colorectal cancer) is the No. 1 way you can prevent colon cancer and rectal cancer.
With screening, colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. Colon cancer and rectal cancer are also highly treatable if caught early. That’s why on-time screening is essential and lifesaving. Screening should begin at age 45.
When it comes to screening, tomorrow can’t wait.
Cancer didn’t stop because COVID-19 started. Colorectal cancer screening can save your life. You have options for how to get screened, including at-home tests. And all screening options are safe.
For more information about colorectal cancer, visit our Colorectal Cancer pages. Now is the time to get screened. To find out which screening option is best for you, visit quiz.getscreened.org. Take control of YOUR health—know your own risk and get checked now.
If you are currently experiencing symptoms, such as rectal bleeding, abdominal discomfort, or a change in bowel habits, contact your primary care physician or gastroenterologist (GI doctor) today.
For any additional questions, please contact the CCA Helpline at 877-422-2030.
#ColorectalCancerAwarenessMonth
#DressInBlueDay
#TomorrowCantWait
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Sources: Colorectal Cancer Alliance, American Cancer Society
