Stopping colorectal cancer Peggy Gauthier For The News-Chronicle Nobody wants to think about having problems "down there." That's the trouble. Cancer of the colon, rectum or bowel, otherwise known as colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths (behind lung cancer) in the United States. The National Cancer Institute estimates that colorectal cancer will claim more than 65,000 lives this year, more than 160,000 new cases will be diagnosed, and 80-90 million people will be considered at risk because of age or other factors. Almost all cases of colorectal cancer begin with the development of benign polyps. These polyps, for reasons still unknown, can turn into colon cancer, yet they rarely produce noticeable symptoms. There are several screening methods that can be used to detect colon polyps before they can become cancerous. Removal of polyps can prevent the onset of colorectal cancer. This disease is one of the most preventable and curable cancers when found at an early stage. Both men and women are at risk for colorectal cancer. The disease is most common among people aged 50 and older and the risk increases with age. A family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps also increases the risk of developing colon cancer. There is also evidence that a family history of multiple cancers involving the breasts, ovaries, uterus and other organs might increase the risk for colorectal cancer in women with this genetic history. In addition to age and family history, lifestyle choices can put people at higher risk for colorectal cancer. High-fat, low-fiber diets, smoking, excessive drinking, lack of exercise and obesity can increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer can develop with no symptoms at first. Symptoms to watch for include blood in or on the stool, a change in bowel habits, stools that are narrower than usual, general stomach discomfort, frequent gas pains, weight loss or tiredness. If you have any of these symptoms, discuss them with your doctor. Only he or she can determine the cause of these symptoms. There are steps individuals can take to prevent colon cancer. Persons age 50 or older or who have one of the risk factors mentioned above and have never been screened should see their doctor. Screening is the best way to find polyps before they become cancerous, or to find an early cancer, when treatment can be most effective. Patients should talk with their primary care physician about the screening options for them. There are several screening tests from which to choose. Check with your health insurance provider to determine colorectal cancer screening benefits. Persons age 50 or older or covered by Medicare probably are eligible to receive colorectal cancer screening benefits. Remember that if detected early, colorectal cancer is curable in up to 90 percent of the diagnosed cases.