March is recognized as National Colorectal Cancer Month and Murray-Calloway County Hospital will make special efforts during this month to spread awareness regarding the colorectal cancer, which is on second number on the list of most deadly cancers among males and females.

The hospital aims to inform people regarding the significance of getting colorectal screenings done because a majority of deaths occurring due to this cancer can be prevented if everybody gets colorectal cancer screening done after the age of 50 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Colorectal cancer has no specific symptoms and is capable of spreading in the entire body if it is not diagnosed or detected. According to an estimate, if males and females of 50 years or more age get screening done regularly, then as much as 60% of the deaths caused by colorectal cancer can be avoided. Colorectal cancer primarily develops in form of abnormal growths, known as precancerous polyps, in the colon or rectum. These precancerous polyps can be detected through screening tests so that they can be eradicated prior to developing into cancer.

The risk of colorectal cancer can be reduced by having a healthy diet by reducing the consumption of processed foods, particularly processed meats, and increasing the intake of fiber by eating fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Some medications and supplements, like aspirin, calcium, vitamin D and selenium, are also being investigated by researchers. However, screening still remains the most effective way of averting the colorectal cancer risk.

Colorectal cancer screening at regular intervals must be commenced after the age of 50 years and even before that if the person or a near family relative has suffered from colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer. Early screening must also be considered in cases where a person is suffering from inflammatory bowel disease.