NE Missouri News

Colorectal cancer remains a significant health concern in the United States, ranking as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Recent data show a rise in colorectal cancer cases among adults under 50 years old between 2012 and 2021, while rates have declined for those aged 50 and older during the same period. The American Cancer Society projects approximately 107,320 new colon cancer cases and 46,950 new rectal cancer cases will be diagnosed in 2025.

Dr. Steven Lyons, a board-certified general surgeon at Northeast Regional Medical Center (NRMC), emphasized the importance of screening for colorectal cancer. He noted that early detection through screening can identify and remove precancerous growths before they become cancerous. Both the American Cancer Society and the US Preventive Services Task Force recommend that individuals at average risk begin screening for colorectal cancers at age 45.

For people with higher risk factors, physicians may suggest starting screenings before age 45 or increasing their frequency. These risk factors include a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, a personal history of ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, prior radiation treatment to the abdomen or pelvis, and genetic conditions such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome.

Screening methods go beyond colonoscopy to include fecal occult blood tests, sigmoidoscopy, virtual colonoscopy, and DNA stool tests.

“While we are doing a better job of screening for and removing polyps before they become cancerous, the overall lifestyle and diet choices of our population are driving up the risk and incidence of these cancers,” says Dr. Lyons.

Dr. Lyons also pointed out several lifestyle changes that may help lower the risk of developing colorectal cancer: maintaining a healthy weight, managing Type 2 diabetes, reducing consumption of red meats like beef, pork, lamb, liver and processed meats; avoiding smoking; limiting alcohol intake; staying physically active; eating more fruits, vegetables and whole grains; and cutting back on sugary drinks.

Insurance plans often cover colonoscopy screenings as part of wellness benefits or as diagnostic tools depending on an individual’s age.

Individuals with a family history of colon cancer or those who have reached age 45 are encouraged to consult their primary care provider about when to start screening and which test is most appropriate for them. Appointments with NRMC primary care providers can be scheduled at https://www.northeastspecialtygroup.com/family-medicine-care.