How to ward off colorectal cancer

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, colorectal (colon) cancer is the fourth most common cancer - after prostate, breast, and lung - and a leading cause of cancer death in the U.S.

The good news? It has slipped down from third. With regular screening, six out of those 10 deaths are preventable, say the CDC. Rates have been steadily declining since the 1980s and as screenings began to rise, according to an American Cancer Society study published this month.

Colorectal cancer affects both genders and all ethnic groups, but is most common among people older than 50. Risk increases with each decade of age.

Although early stage colon cancer is rarely noticeable without proper testing, some may detect signs as it progresses. According to Mayo Clinic, these may include:

1. Change in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or frequency)

2. Rectal bleeding

3. Persistent abdominal discomfort (cramps, gas, pain)

4. A feeling that the bowel doesn't empty completely

5. Weakness or fatigue

6. Unexplained weight loss

Again, these symptoms may not come up until cancer is past the early, easily treatable stage, so don't wait for symptoms. And don't be scared of screening. If they find anything it's usually polyps, as yet non-cancerous and easily removed.

What can you do?

1. Get screened regularly after 50 (now covered under health reform law), e.g. colonoscopy (colon and rectum) every 10 years if healthy; sigmoidoscopy (rectum only) every five years. It's not so bad, and it's sure better than developing a potentially incurable disease. If you have family history, talk with your doctor about screening earlier.

2. Don't smoke.

3. Exercise and lose weight. In addition to the benefits brought by a healthier heart, brain, and improved circulation, a thinner middle also reduces colon cancer risk.

4. Eat more fresh fruits and veggies (i.e., disease-fighting vitamins plus fiber). A lot more.

Get more facts about colorectal and other cancers from The American Cancer Society at Cancer.org.

Sholeh Patrick is a columnist for the Hagadone News Network. Contact her at sholeh@cdapress.com.