March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month


Of cancers affecting both men and women, colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon and rectum) is the second leading cancer killer in the United States. In 2005,* 141,405 people were diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and 53,005 people died from it.   Go get screened if you are at high risk for it.

Symptoms
Early stages of colorectal cancer do not usually have symptoms. Advanced disease may cause:

  • Rectal bleeding or blood in or on the stool
  • Change in bowel habits or stools that are narrower than usual
  • Stomach discomfort (bloating, fullness or cramps)
  • Diarrhea, constipation or feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
  • Weight loss for no apparent reason
  • Constant fatigue
  • Vomiting