Colon Cancer

A right of passage that many people dread is the colonoscopy, which is recommended every five years for adults over age 50. While the testing methods may make you squirm, the danger of colon cancer is real: Each year 2,500 Kentuckians are diagnosed with colon cancer and 840 die.

Who is at risk?

• Men and women can get colon cancer. 

• It is most often found in people over age 50.

• The risk for getting colon cancer goes up with age.

You should be tested for colon cancer if...

• You are over age 50

• You have had colon polyps or cancer

• You have had a family member with colon polyps or cancer

• You have inflammatory bowel disease

• If you are over age 75, talk to your doctor to find out what test you should have

People can lower their risk for colon cancer with with diet and exercise.

Recommended diet

• Choose foods and drinks in amounts that help achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight raises the risk of colon cancer in both men and women. If you are overweight, you can ask your doctor about a weight loss plan.

• Eat five or more servings of vegetables and fruits each day. 

• Choose whole grains.

• Eat fewer processed and red meats.

 Tests for colon cancer and how often they should be done

• Digital rectal exam: Every year after age 50

• Fecal occult blood test: Every year after age 50

• Flexible sigmoidoscpoy: Every five years, beginning at age 50

• Colonscopy: Every 10 years starting at age 50

• Air contrast barium enema: Every five to 10 years starting at age 50

For more information on colon cancer, contact your health care provider or visit one of the links below:

American Cancer Society
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Kentucky Cancer Program (note Adobe Reader is required to open this file)