Colorectal cancer can affect everyone, regardless of race, age or gender. It’s one of the leading causes of death in the United States, and it’s especially dangerous for those ages 50 and older. Luckily, regular screenings can help prevent the majority of cases. The problem is that many people don’t get screened or don’t know what to look for.
Symptoms of colorectal cancer include a change in bowel habits, such as frequent diarrhea and constipation, continuing abdominal cramps, bloating and gas, and rectal bleeding found in stool. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to be screened right away.
Speak with your doctor about receiving regular screenings, especially if you’re over the age of 50.
Visit www.ccalliance.org for more information.
Take Action
Awareness only goes so far toward improving your health—you also need to take action. Use this section to track your weekly progress as you establish your healthier lifestyle.
Week 1 (2/28-3/6) – Create a wellness plan
What do you want to improve this month? Set a short-term health goal and a plan for achieving it.
Week 2 (3/7-3/13) – Get started
Are you ready? Begin your plan and stick to it.
Week 3 (3/14-3/20) – Look for improvement
How are you doing? Think about what’s working with your plan and if you need to adjust it.
Week 4 (3/21-3/27) – Keep going
Are the adjustments helping? Continue with your revised plan and finish the month strong.
Week 4 (3/28-4/3) – Reflect
Did you reach your goal? Consider what worked with the plan and what should change next month.