Last year, colon cancer claimed the lives of more than 50,000 Americans, making the disease the second most common cause of cancer-related death for men in the nation. While these numbers are alarming, research suggests regular colon cancer screenings could significantly reduce its prevalence. Today, the knowledgeable experts from Anacortes, Washington’s top cancer center, Island Hospital, explain why annual screenings are so important.

According to researchers from the American Cancer Society and Island Hospital’s own cancer center, if all Americans over 50 were regularly screened for colon cancer, it would prevent an estimated 60% of all deaths. That’s right: Last year, regular screenings could have saved an estimated 30,000 Americans.

Since the likelihood of developing this condition increases with age, screenings become particularly important starting at age 50. Both men and women are frequently diagnosed with the disease, nearly at equal rates. A family history of cancer, an unhealthy diet, a sedentary lifestyle, and obesity are just a few risk factors that may increase your chances of developing it. In its early stages, colon cancer typically shows few to no symptoms, so prompt treatment during this stage is imperative.

Colon cancer often begins with a small polyp on the interior lining of the rectum or colon, which can be detected with one of the three recommended screening types: high-sensitivity fecal occult blood testing (FOBT), a colonoscopy, or a sigmoidoscopy. For those over 50 or who are particularly at risk, the FOBT test is recommended each year. A colonoscopy is recommended every ten years, and a sigmoidoscopy is recommended every five years. Right after its detection, a doctor can remove the growth. Often, this will halt the spread of the cancer.

To combat this preventable disease, encourage those you know and love to get screened for colon cancer today. For more information, call Island Hospital at (855) 440-4200. You can also learn more about the hospital’s cancer center, physical therapy unit, and surgery center by visiting the website.