March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness

Most Canadians don’t like to talk about colorectal cancer but the month of March is a great time to change that.

Screening for colorectal cancer is recommended for men and women beginning at age 50.  Some of the screening tests designed to help diagnose colorectal cancer include colonoscopy, fecal occult blood test (FOBT) and flexible sigmoidoscopy.  The benefits and risks of these screening methods vary.  Discuss with your health care provider which test is best for you. 

Since every patient has a unique medical history, it is extremely important to talk with your health care provider about your personal risk factors and/or experience with colorectal cancer.  By talking regularly and openly with your provider, you can take an active role in your health care.

Questions to ask your health care provider about colorectal cancer screening:

• Based on my family and medical history, do I have any of the risk factors that would make me likely to develop colorectal cancer?
• Are my children or other relatives at higher risk of colorectal cancer?
• If I have any of the risk factors, are there any changes I can make to put me less at risk?
• What are the signs and symptoms that I should watch for?
• Should I have any of the tests that would screen me for colorectal cancer?
• How do I prepare for the tests?  Do I need to change my diet or my usual medication schedule?
• What is involved in the test?  Will it be uncomfortable or painful?  Is there any risk involved?
• When and how will I get my results?
• If I need to have a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, who will do the procedure?
• Will I need to have someone with me on the day of the procedure?
• How often will I need to have a colonoscopy?

Preventative Health Care – the Easiest Way to Protect Your Future!