The Arizona Republic - 03/30/2019 Copy Reduced to 79% from original to fit letter page Page : ZL20

20 Z11 ❚ WEEKEND, 03.30.19 ❚ AZCENTRAL.COM

Colon cancer preventable, detectable with screening

Your Turn
Nasrin Ghalyaie
Guest columnist
Did you know that colorectal cancer,
often called colon cancer, is the third
most common cancer in the United
States, yet it is also one of the most pre-
ventable and treatable? It affects all ra-
cial and ethnic groups and is most com-
mon in people ages 50 and older.
The best way to prevent colorectal
cancer is to get screened regularly start-
ing at age 50. There are often no signs or
symptoms — that’s why it’s so impor-
tant to get screened.
According to the National Cancer In-
stitute, the rate of colorectal cancer in-
cidence and deaths in men and women
age 50 and over is declining thanks to an
increase in screening. Aside from age, a
family history of the disease, excessive
alcohol use, physical inactivity and obe-
sity, smoking and diet are risk factors
that can contribute to the risk of col-
orectal cancer.
Having certain health conditions,
such as Crohn’s disease, that cause
chronic inflammation (ongoing irrita-
tion) of the small intestine and colon are
also risk factors.
Screenings for colorectal cancer can
identify and remove precancerous pol-
yps. Some polyps can contain abnormal
cells in the colon or rectum can divide
uncontrollably and ultimately form a
malignant tumor. The good news is that
even though polyps are common in
adults over 50, most are not cancer.
Although several methods exist for
screenings, each individual should dis-
cuss with their physician which option
they feel is most appropriate. Each type
of screening will have advantages and
disadvantages over others. One of the
most commonly used screenings is col-
onoscopy.
A colonoscopy allows the physician
to use a flexible, lighted tube with a lens
for viewing and a tool for removing tis-
sue if polyps are detected. Any abnor-
mal growths can be removed, and stud-
ies show that colonoscopy reduces
deaths from colorectal cancer by up to
70 percent.
Because people who may have pol-
yps or colorectal cancer don’t always
have symptoms, it’s especially impor-
tant to know your risks and start
screenings at the appropriate time.
However, sometimes symptoms may
occur. They can include blood in the
stool, unexplained weight loss or persis-
tent stomach cramps, aches or pains.
Research indicates a healthy diet
with more fiber, fruits and vegetables
may help lower the probability of devel-
oping colon polyps. Maintaining a
healthy weight, or losing weight if
you’re overweight, may also contribute
to decreased risk.
Everyone can take these healthy
steps to help prevent colorectal cancer:
❚ Get screened starting at age 50;
however, if you have family history of
colon cancer or suffering from symp-
toms of unexplained abdominal pain,
bloating, fatigue, rectal bleeding, unin-
tentional weight loss or recent change in
your bowel habits, talk to your health-
care professional. You may need a col-
onoscopy regardless of your age. The
national database shows a recent sig-
nificant increase in the incidence of col-
orectal cancer in people younger than
50.
❚ Know your family health history.
❚ Get plenty of physical activity.
❚ Eat healthy and maintain a healthy
weight.
❚ Limit alcohol consumption.
❚ Avoid tobacco use.
Everyone can take a more active role
in managing their health and reducing
risk factors for disease. Screenings can
detect cancer early, where the odds for
effective treatment are considerably
improved.
To find out more about your risk of
colon cancer, screening options and
treatments for the disease, talk to your
doctor.
Nasrin Ghalyaie, M.D., is a board-
certified colorectal surgeon on the med-
ical staff at Abrazo Central Campus.

SENIOR LIVING AT ITS FINEST…

BELLA VISTA!
CALL 480.426.8261 TO SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY!
P: 480.426.8261 | 1825 West Emelita Ave. | Mesa, AZ 85202 | BellaVistaMesa.com

PART OF THE USA TODAY NETWORK Copyright © 2019 The Arizona Republic 03/30/2019
April 1, 2019 8:46 am (GMT +7:00) Powered by TECNAVIA