March Health Emphasis

"Of cancers that affect both men and women, colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the United States. Colorectal cancer affects all racial and ethnic groups and is most often found in people ages 50 and older.” http://www.healthfinder.gov/NHO/MarAnnounce.aspx

As with many types of cancer, an early diagnosis and treatment can make a huge difference in outcome.  Colon/rectal cancer often does not show symptoms and become apparent for a long time so regular screenings are important—especially after age 50.

Risk factors for colon/rectal cancer include being over age 50, smoking, having a family history of this type cancer and being African American. 
For more information, visit the Prevent Cancer Foundation at  http://preventcancer.org/prevention/preventable-cancers/colorectal-cancer/ or the American Cancer Society at http://www.cancer.org/cancer/colonandrectumcancer/index