5 Facts to Learn During National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

By James Hughes | March 24, 2022 |

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and a good time to learn more about common cancer. Colorectal cancer cases are expected to reach almost 150,000 cases in 2021. It’s the third most common type of cancer in the U.S. The good news is that early screenings make it an easier cancer to beat. If caught in the polyp stage, they can be removed during the colonoscopy and stop the cancerous growths from developing. Having a caregiver on hand to help take your senior to appointments can be helpful.

Caregiver in Foley AL: Colorectal Cancer

Here are five other facts you need to know about colorectal cancer.

-Types of Colorectal Tumors

The most common colorectal tumor is an adenocarcinoma, which is found in the cells that create the mucus that lubricates the colon and rectum. The other four are:

Carcinoid – Tumors start in intestinal cells that produce hormones.
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors – GISTs start in the walls of the colon or digestive tract.
Lymphomas – They start in the cells of the immune system that are in the lymph nodes, colon, rectum, and several other organs.
Sarcomas – They start in the muscles, connective tissues, and blood vessels in the colon and rectum.

-9 Out of 10 Cases Can Be Treated if Detected Early

According to the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, 9 out of 10 cases of colorectal cancer are easily treated if caught early. Screenings are the only way to catch it early. If you wait until the symptoms occur, such as blood in the stool, it’s going to involve more of a fight.

-Smoking Increases Your Risk

Several things increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer. A diet high in red meats and/or processed meats is one risk factor. Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle are others. Many people do not realize that smoking also increases the risk of colorectal cancer.

-Dietary Changes May Help

Increase the amount of fiber that you eat every day. It’s believed that fiber can help lower your risk. Another dietary change to consider is your parents’ intake of vitamin D. Some experts believe that vitamin D through supplements and time in the sun will help.

-Preventative Screenings Are Essential

Your parents have several options for screenings. They could have a fecal blood test, an x-ray or ultrasound of the colorectal system, or a full colonoscopy that involves a camera being inserted into the rectum where it travels through the system to look for polyps and tumors.

They do need a ride to and from a colonoscopy. If you can’t take time off, make sure caregivers are scheduled to be there for them. Caregivers are also helpful if your parents have colorectal cancer and must undergo surgical treatment. They can cook, clean, and do the laundry while your mom or dad heals.

If you or someone you know needs a Caregiver in Foley, AL, please contact the friendly caregivers at  Hughes Home Care. We provide quality and affordable care for your elderly loved ones in our community. Call Us Today at 251-517-9901. Serving Mobile & Baldwin County.

Sources:

https://fascrs.org/patients/diseases-and-conditions/a-z/basic-facts-about-colorectal-cancer

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/colon-rectal-cancer/about/key-statistics.html

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James Hughes

Owner at Hughes Home Care

James Hughes is a graduate of The University of Alabama (Health Care Administration), the University Of Alabama, Birmingham (Physical Therapy) and is a Navy veteran.

He has three teenage children and are actively involved in their church and community – James coach’s youth football, basketball and baseball and serves at 3 Circle Church. He is a member of the Fairhope Youth Football Board and the Rock Creek POA Board.

It is his passion and commitment to providing quality and responsive service that has made their company the fastest growing home care agency in South Alabama.

He believes that being an independently owned and operated company gives him the flexibility to manage his business in a way that better serves their clients.

He understands that you have a choice of care providers and he will do his utmost to earn your trust.