Hospital Spotlights Colon Cancer Awareness Month

SOUTHAMPTON, NY — March is colon cancer awareness month and Stony Brook Southampton Hospital is setting out to educate residents about the need to stay proactive.

Colorectal cancer, more commonly known as colon cancer, is the second leading cause of cancer-related death for both men and women in the U.S., the hospital said in a release.

The disease, however, is preventable and treatable, so Stony Brook Southampton Hospital is urging individuals to speak to their doctors about their colon health and getting screened.

The American Cancer Society estimates that 95,920 people will be diagnosed with colon cancer this year and that 50,260 people will die from the disease, the hospital said.

Studies have shown, the hospital said, that 60 percent of cases can be prevented by a colonoscopy — a procedure that involves examining the inside of the colon for any precancerous polyps, or growths — even years before symptoms occur. Symptoms of colon cancer include changes in bowel habits, persistent abdominal discomfort, rectal bleeding, and weakness or fatigue.

Knowing the risk factors of colon cancer is also important for prevention, the hospital added.

Risk for the disease increases for those over the age of 50, with a family history of colon cancer, who have had another type of cancer, have had ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, who smoke, and who eat a diet high in red meat but low in calcium, folate, and fiber, a release said.

Aside from routine screenings, colon cancer can be prevented by following a diet of mostly whole grains, fruits, and vegetables with little to no red meat, cured meat, or processed foods, the release said. Exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight are also helpful as is abstaining from tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption, the release said.

“It is important for patients to focus on health rather than on disease and illness. They should go to the doctor to stay well — not just to get well. Getting a colonoscopy is part of that equation,” said Steve Georgopoulos, MD, a gastroenterologist at Stony Brook Southampton Hospital. “It’s proven to prevent colon cancer and reduce mortality before one gets sick.”

Patch file photo.