Press release<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Colon cancer occurs when cells in the colon or rectum grow uncontrollably. Abnormal growths, known as polyps, can occasionally develop and certain polyps may eventually develop into cancer. Polyps can be found by screening tests and be removed before they become cancerous. Colon cancer is preventable, with the proper screening and education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some of the risk factors for colorectal cancer include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u00b7 Inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn\u2019s disease<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u00b7 A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u00b7 Lifestyle factors that include overweight and obesity; not being physically active; certain types of diets such as a diet low in fruit and vegetables, a low-fiber and high-fat diet, and a diet high in processed meats; tobacco use; and alcohol use<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Colorectal cancer may not cause symptoms right away and some people have no symptoms. Some of the symptoms may include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u00b7 A change in bowel habits<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u00b7 Blood in or on your stool (bowel movement)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u00b7 Diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty all the way<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u00b7 Discomfort in the stomach area such as cramps, gas, or pain that do not go away<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u00b7 Unintended weight loss<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u00b7 Weakness and fatigue<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 90% of people whose colorectal cancers are found early, diagnosed and treated appropriately are still alive five years later. \u201cGetting screened plays a big role in savings lives by preventing cancer and slowing its progression when it is found,\u201d stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Colorectal cancer screening among adults aged 50\u201375 years \u2013 2020 Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
County Percentage (%)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Genesee County 75.5%<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Orleans County 73.3%<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wyoming County 74.4%<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cIn recent decades, screening rates among older adults has significantly increased which is great news,\u201d stated Laura Paolucci, Public Health Administrator for the Wyoming County Health Department. \u201cHowever, current data indicates that individuals lacking health insurance or a primary care provider are undergoing screening procedures less frequently.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For eligible men and women, the Cancer Services Program offers free screenings for breast, cervical, and colon cancer. To learn more, call 716-278-4898. If you live in New York State and need health insurance, you can contact the New York State of Health Official Health Plan Marketplace by phone at 1-855-355-5777 or online at https:\/\/nystateofhealth.ny.gov\/<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The most effective way to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer is to get screened for colorectal cancer routinely, beginning at age 45. Residents are also encouraged to increase their physical activity, keep a healthy weight, limit alcohol consumption, and avoid tobacco. Although more research is needed to understand why, the incidence of colorectal cancer is growing among people younger than 50. If you have concerns about this, speak with your healthcare provider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For more information on Health Department programs and services<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00b7 Genesee County Health Department at: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555 or visit their website at GOHealthNY.org<\/a>. Follow GO Health on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formally Twitter) at GOHealthNY.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00b7 Orleans County Health Department at: 585-589-3278 or visit their website at GOHealthNY.org<\/a>. Follow GO Health on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formally Twitter) at GOHealthNY.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u00b7 Wyoming County Health Department at: 585-786-8890 or visit their website at https:\/\/www.wyomingco.net\/203\/Health-Department<\/a>. Follow Wyoming County Health Department on Facebook and Instagram by searching \u2018Wyoming County Health Department\u2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n ###<\/p>\n\n\n\n Resources<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n American Cancer Society, (2014, January 17). Key Statistics for Colorectal Cancer. https:\/\/www.cancer.org\/cancer\/types\/colon-rectal-cancer\/about\/key-statistics.html<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Population Health. (2022) PLACES Data. https:\/\/places.cdc.gov\/?view=county&locationIds=36037,36073,36121<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n National Cancer Institute. Why is Colorectal Cancer Rising Rapidly among Young Adults? https:\/\/www.cancer.gov\/news-events\/cancer-currents-blog\/2020\/colorectal-cancer-rising-younger-adults<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n New York State Department of Health. (2022, March 3). New York State Department of Health Reminds New Yorkers to Get Screened for Colorectal Cancer. https:\/\/www.health.ny.gov\/press\/releases\/2022\/2022-03-30_colon_cancer_month.htm<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Press release Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Colon cancer occurs when cells in the colon or rectum grow uncontrollably. Abnormal growths, known as polyps, can occasionally develop and certain polyps may eventually develop into cancer. Polyps \u2026<\/p>\n