Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in men and women in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). However, experts say many of these deaths could be prevented with regular screenings and if caught early. Some types of screenings can also help find and remove precancerous growths called polyps before they develop into cancer.
ACS recommends people at an average risk of getting colon cancer receive a colonoscopy beginning at age 45, not 50 as previously recommended. The organization has found rates of colon cancer among people younger than 50 are on the rise. Patients at an increased risk may need earlier and more frequent screening depending upon consultation with a health care provider.
HSHS Sacred Heart and St. Joseph’s hospitals offer the information to help in the screening, prevention and detection of colon cancer. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE.
