Thursday, 8 March 2007

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness and Nutrition Month


Did you know? Screening is a very important way to prevent and detect colorectal cancer. Early detection can mean more effective treatment. Colorectal cancer usually develops over a long time without causing any signs or symptoms. When symptoms do start they are often vague and easily mistaken for more common illnesses. Regular physical activity and eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of vegetables and fruit may help reduce your risk of colorectal cancer. Statistics Currently, colorectal cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death in Canada. In 2006, it was estimated that about 20,000 Canadians were diagnosed with colorectal cancer and about 8,500 died from it. 9 out of 10 men and women diagnosed with colorectal cancer are 50 years of age and older. How we are helping Our efforts include: educating people about the benefits of proper nutrition that should include 5 to 10 servings of vegetables and fruits per day. recommending men and women age 50 and over have a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) at least every 2 years. Learn more about colorectal screening tests. advocating for population-based colorectal screening in your province if it doesn’t already have a program available.

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