Published: March 2, 2019
To increase awareness about the importance of colorectal cancer screening, Western Health Advantage is proudly participating in Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month this March. In California, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed (excluding skin cancers), with over 14,000 Californians diagnosed annually.
Thanks to improvements in prevention, early detection, and treatment, more than a million people in the U.S. count themselves as survivors of colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer affects all racial and ethnic groups and is most often found in people ages 50 and older. You may also be at higher risk if you are African American, smoke, or have a family history of colorectal cancer. There are often no signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer – that’s why it’s so important to get screened.
Take these healthy steps to help prevent colorectal cancer:
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Get screened starting at age 50. If you have a family history of colon polyps or cancer, your doctor may recommend getting screened before age 50.
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If you smoke, quit smoking. If you don’t, don’t start. Stay away from secondhand smoke.
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Colorectal cancer has been linked to heavy alcohol use. If you drink, limit alcohol use to no more than two drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women.
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Get plenty of physical activity and eat healthy, such as by including lots of fruits and vegetables in your diet.
For more information, visit the Colorectal Cancer Alliance and American Cancer Society websites.
Did you know? WHA is a sponsor of Sacramento’s annual Undy Run/Walk – another way we support our community and help prevent colorectal cancer.