Colorectal Cancer and Colon Polyps
Broadcast Dates: Monday, June 4 - Sunday, June 10, 2012
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Colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer, and if you’re 50 or older, you’re at greater risk.
Hi, I’m Dr. Griffin Rodgers, bringing you Healthy Moments. I’m the Director of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases at NIH.
Colorectal cancer usually starts from polyps, or growths on the surface of the colon or rectum. Over time, some can become cancerous. Most people with polyps don’t have symptoms, so the key is to get tested.
If you’re African American or have a family history of colorectal cancer, you’re at an even greater risk and screening is recommended no later than age 45 – but check with your doctor. Doctors use several methods to look for cancer, and will recommend which is best, and how often to get tested. Doctors can remove polyps before they become cancerous or find cancer early, when there’s a good chance for cure.
For more information, visit our website at NIDDK. This is Dr. Griffin Rodgers. Join me next week for more Healthy Moments.
Page last updated: June 03, 2012