MidState Medical Center: Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Since March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, doctors Thomas Jung and Maria Johnson, Gastroenterologists with MidState Medical Center, were here to discuss the commonality of this disease, the many risk factors involved and the importance of screening tests to detect and cure diseases as early as possible.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the 3 ^rd most commonly diagnosed cancer in males and the 2 ^nd most common cancer in females.  Overall, the incidence and mortality rates are decreasing in the US but despite this decline, 51,000 Americans die from CRC each year.

Risk factors for CRC increase after the age of 40 and males have a 25% increased mortaility rate than females.  Race, alcohol use, obesity and smoking also increase your risk of contracting CRC.  While a high fiber diet, exercise, as well as vitamins and supplements may help protect you.

MidState Medical Center

435 Lewis Avenue

Meriden , Connecticut

(203) 694-8200

www.midstatemedical.org