Sharp Health News
6 ways to lower your risk of colorectal cancer (video)
March 1, 2022
“That’s why screening is so important,” says Dr. Michael Lajin, a board-certified gastroenterologist at Sharp Grossmont Hospital.
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men and women combined in the U.S., and an estimated 151,030 new cases will be diagnosed in 2022.
However, when colorectal cancer is caught early, it’s one of the most treatable cancers.
“Up to 50% of colon cancer deaths could be prevented by modifying or avoiding risk factors, and implementing prevention strategies,” Dr. Lajin says.
The most important thing you can do is get screened. There are several different tests, but a colonoscopy screening is considered the gold standard.
Besides detecting cancer, a colonoscopy screening helps doctors identify any abnormal growths — called polyps — that can occur in the colon and rectum. Doctors also can remove polyps during the same procedure. Polyps can sometimes turn cancerous, so removing them early can prevent cancer before it starts.
While anyone can get colorectal cancer, there are many things people can do to help lower their risk.
Watch the video to learn more about risk factors and prevention tips.
Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when caught early with screening. Learn more about how you can reduce your risk and schedule a screening.
You might also like:
Helping children grieve
Learn how to help children process their feelings and cope with loss in a healthy manner.
Aug. 3, 2022
Are moisturizers with sunscreen effective?
Using just one product is an easy way to make sun protection a part of your daily routine.
Aug. 3, 2022
5 reasons I’d like to be more like my cat
Cats are confident, adventurous, know what they want and go after it.
Aug. 8, 2022
Choose the doctor who's right for you.
At Sharp, we make it easy to find an exceptional doctor — right where you live and work.