Colorectal Cancer

Cancer in the colon and rectum begins in the digestive system, also known as gastrointestinal (GI) system. While not all risk factors such as age, race and genetics can be controlled, important lifestyle changes can be taken to prevent this disease.

Know what a polyp is

A polyp is a growth tissue that starts in the lining and grows in the center of the colon or rectum. Removal of polyps, when detected through screenings, helps prevent the onset of colorectal cancer.

Diet and exercise

It’s not new but it’s worthwhile to know that fruits, veggies and whole grains coupled with 30 minutes of exercise each day can aid not only a healthy digestive system, but enhance mood and overall well-being and prevent various cancers.

Vitamins

A multivitamin with folic acid and folate is beneficial in prevention, while additional calcium and vitamin D may be helpful against this disease. Studies show that women with a diet high in magnesium may also reduce colorectal cancer.

Avoid additional risk factors

A smoking cessation program can be important in preventing various cancers including colorectal. You will also want to reduce your intake of alcohol.

Screenings

Get colonoscopy screenings and digital rectal exams as recommended by your physician.

All of these measures and more can help prevent this and other similar diseases.

TRICARE benefit information

TRICARE covers colorectal cancer exams as follows:

• Physical exams periodically during health examinations for individuals 40 years and older
• Fecal occult blood testing annually for individuals 50 years and older
• Proctosigmoidoscopy or Sigmoidoscopy once every three to five years beginning at age 50
• Colonoscopy every 10 years for beneficiaries 50 and older, every two years beginning at age 25 (or five years younger than the earliest age of diagnosis of colorectal cancer in a family member, whichever is earlier), and then annually after age 40 for individuals with hereditary non-polyposis colon rectal cancer syndrome.  For individuals who have first-degree relatives diagnosed with sporadic colon rectal cancer or adenomas before the age of 60 or multiple first-degree relatives with colon rectal cancer or adenomas, exams are available every three to five years beginning 10 years earlier than the youngest affected relative.
  
  

Additional resources

American Cancer Society

Cancer Research and Prevention Foundation

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