It’s the time of year when we begin to put the winter months behind us and look forward to the hope and renewal that the spring months bring! Unfortunately, the hopes and dreams of many can be dashed when aging adults are diagnosed with some form of cancer.
In 2020, statistics revealed in the Ohio Annual Cancer Report 2023 published by the Ohio Department of Health showed the Top Ten Cancers by Percent of New Invasive Cancer Cases in Ohio were breast cancer (14.6%), lung/bronchus (14,2%), prostate (12.8%), and colorectal (7.9%), which combined, accounts for nearly half of all new invasive cancer cases in Ohio in 2020 at 49.6%.
Since we have discussed prostate cancer, breast cancer, and lung cancer in previous months, March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, and Damey and I feel compelled to share important information so we can all stay in front of colorectal cancer (CRC) to save more lives in Ohio.
The American Cancer Society explains, “Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum. The cancers can also be called colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending upon where they start. Colon cancer and rectal cancer are often grouped together because they have many features in common.”
The colon and rectum comprise the large intestine or bowel, an essential part of the digestive system or gastrointestinal system. Polyps that form in the colon or rectum often become cancerous which is why routine screenings are recommended for adults over age 50, but may be necessary by age 45 or sooner, if there is a family history of CRC.
“The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults aged 50-75 be screened. The American Cancer Society now recommends screening as early as age 45,” according to ODH, especially if there is a family history including CRC.
Based on statistics from the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), 90% of CRCs occurred in Ohioans ages 50 and older from 2014-2018. An average of 5,914 cases of CRC were diagnosed each of those years in Ohio.
The CRC incidence rate was 30% higher among men than women in Ohio during that same period, and the death rate was 20% higher among African Americans than Caucasian Americans.
Fortunately, the ODH reports that over 20 years (1997-2017), CRC death rates declined by 38%, which is due in large part to CRC screenings and early detection.
“Screening can find precancerous polyps, which can be removed before they turn into cancer, as well as find CRC early when treatment works best,” ODH says.
Screening tests that can identify if and where polyps are located include stool tests and visual exams. Stool tests can be done at home or in a medical facility. Visual tests are colonoscopy, computed tomography (CT), colonography (virtual colonoscopy), or flexible sigmoidoscopy, which are generally performed as outpatient procedures in a hospital.
The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgery (ASCRS) emphasizes, “Colorectal cancer is preventable and highly curable if detected in early stages. The colon and rectum make up your large intestine. Colorectal cancers usually begin as a growth (polyp) on the inner lining of the large intestine. The exact cause of colorectal cancer is unknown. However, the understanding of certain genetic causes continues to increase.”
Risk factors for CRC include:
- Age (90% are over the age of 50)
- Personal history of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis for more than 8 years
- Personal and family history of colorectal polyps
- Personal history of breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer
Symptoms of CRC include:
- A change in bowel habits: constipation, diarrhea, or more frequent bowel movements
- Narrow/smaller shaped stools
- Bright red or very dark blood in the stool
- Ongoing abdominal or pelvic pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constant fatigue or tiredness
“Abdominal pain and weight loss are typically late symptoms, indicating possible extensive disease. Anyone who experiences any of the above symptoms should see a physician as soon as possible,” says the ASCRS.
The primary takeaway from these stats and medical data is that early detection of CRC is the key to successful outcomes. If you are at risk of developing CRC due to any of the risk factors listed above, you are experiencing symptoms of CRC, or you have a loved one who is, a Home Helpers® caregiver can provide transportation assistance to and from doctor appointments and CRC screenings.
In addition, a professional caregiver can help with colonoscopy preps and deliver any necessary support through a variety of in-home care services to help make life easier.
We are happy to schedule a FREE consultation at your convenience to assess specific needs and determine specific ways we can help you or your loved one.
Home Helpers® Canton, OH, is Veteran-owned and operated. We are honored to have received the Home Care Pulse – Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice Award, the Shooting Star Award (2011), and multiple Platinum awards for the superior level of care we provide. We are Certified Senior Advisors and members of the Home Care Association of America, Alzheimer’s Association, and the International Franchise Association. In addition, we were ranked in the Top 500 Franchises by Entrepreneur Magazine in 2019.
Home Helpers® Canton proudly serves male and female seniors in Stark County, Portage County, and portions of Summit County including the communities of Akron, Alliance, Canton, East Sparta, Hartville, Jackson, Massillon, Navarre, North Canton, Randolph, and surrounding areas. 330.892.9329
Sources:
Ohio Annual Cancer Report 2023
American Cancer Society
Ohio Department of Health
American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgery
