Colorectal Cancer...What is it?

Date: 03/15/23

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the U.S. among cancers that affect both men and women. But it doesn’t have to be. Routine screening for colorectal cancer beginning at age 45 can save lives!

What Is Colorectal Cancer?

Cancer is a disease in which cells in the body grow out of control. Colorectal cancer is cancer that occurs in the colon or rectum. The colon is the large intestine or large bowel. The rectum is the passageway that connects the colon to the anus.

Colorectal cancer occurs most often in men and women who are 45 years old or older, and the risk increases with age. If you are 45 or older, talk to your health care provider about getting screened.

What Are the Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer?

Someone could have colorectal cancer and not know it. People do not always have symptoms, especially at first (or in early stages). That’s why screenings are so important. If there are symptoms, they may include:

• Changes in your bowel habits.
• Blood in or on your stool (bowel movement).
• Abdominal pain, aches, or cramps that don’t go away.
• Unexplained weight loss.

Contact your provider if you notice any of these symptoms.

Remember: Louisiana Healthcare Connections members ages 50-75 earn $50 in healthy rewards when they complete their colorectal cancer screening.

Learn more about colorectal cancer screenings by visiting  www.LouisianaHealthConnect.com/colorectal50.

Need help? Call us at 1-866-595-8133 (TTY: 711), Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., if you would like help scheduling your screening or finding a ride.