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According to the American Cancer Society, the top five recommended ways to help prevent colorectal cancer are:

• Get screened for colorectal cancer regularly.
• Maintain a healthy weight throughout life.
• Adopt a physically active lifestyle.
• Consume a healthy diet with an emphasis on plant sources.
• Limit consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Screening Can Reduce Your Risk!

Early detection is vital -- over 80% of all cases of colorectal cancer can be prevented with recommended screening. Despite its high incidence, colorectal cancer is one of the most detectable and, if found early enough, most treatable forms of cancer.

If you’re 50 or older, getting a screening test for colorectal cancer could save your life. Here’s how:

Colorectal cancer usually starts from polyps in the colon or rectum. A polyp is a growth that shouldn't be there. 

• Over time, some polyps can turn into cancer.
• Screening tests can find polyps, so they can be removed before they turn into cancer.
• Screening tests can also find colorectal cancer early. When it is found early, the chance of being cured is good.

Professional guidelines emphasize the importance of a regular screening program that includes annual fecal occult blood tests (FOBT), periodic partial or full colon exams, or both. Leaders in the field have estimated that, with widespread adoption of these screening practices, as many as 30,000 lives could be saved each year. Read more about screening methods and guidelines.

"Screen My Colon!"^TM
Watch our new animated public service announcement, and tell your doctor, "Screen my colon!"^TM

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