If you’re 45 years or older, the time to get screened for colorectal cancer is now! Talk to your doctor about what screening test option is right for you. Regular Screening can find precancerous polyps (abnormal growths in the colon or rectum) so they can be removed before turning into cancer. Screening can find colorectal cancer at an early stage, when treatment often leads to a cure.
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the United States, and Nebraska ranks 41st for screening rates, but we can do better. Get screened today!​
Colon cancer develops with few, if any, symptoms at first. If symptoms are present, they may include:
- Blood in or on the stool
- A change in bowel habits
- Stools that are narrower than usual
- General, unexplained stomach discomfort
- Frequent gas, pains, or indigestion
- Unexplained weight loss
- Chronic fatigue
These symptoms can also be associated with other health conditions. If you have any of the symptoms, discuss them with your healthcare provider. Only your healthcare provider, through testing, can determine why you’re having these symptoms.
Sources: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Colon-Screening.aspx; https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal/index.htm
