Early detection is key to successful colon-cancer treatment

Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. for both men and women. When colorectal cancer is found early and treated, however, the survival rate over five years is about 90 percent.

Many options for early detection exist, such as testing the stool for invisible blood or examining the inside of the colon with a colonoscopy procedure.

“Routine screening of asymptomatic people for colon cancer can save lives,” says Dr. Samir Gupta, a colon specialist at UT Southwestern Medical Center. “The most important step is having at least one screening test done on a regular basis.”

Beginning at age 50, most people should have screenings annually. Those with increased risk for colon or rectal cancer, such as anyone with blood in the stool or who has a close family member diagnosed with colon or rectal cancer or who has polyps, should be seen by a medical doctor and considered for age-appropriate testing.

Visit http://www.utsouthwestern.edu/cancercenter to learn more about UT Southwestern’s clinical services in cancer.

Media Contact: LaKisha Ladson

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

To automatically receive news releases from UT Southwestern via e-mail, subscribe at www.utsouthwestern.edu/receivenews