ABOUT COLON CANCER

Colon cancer and rectal cancer (colorectal cancer) is the second leading cause of cancer in the US, but it doesn't have to be. If you are 50 or older, or have a family history of colorectal cancer, talk to your doctor about getting a colonoscopy.

A colonoscopy is a screening test that checks for colorectal cancer.

During the test, doctors may find polyps, abnormal growths in the colon or rectum, and remove them before they turn into cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control: "if everyone aged 50 years or older were screened regularly, as many as 60% of deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented."

Help prevent colon cancer - talk to your doctor about it today!

If you would like to get tested for colon cancer at Cambridge Health Alliance, visit our GI Center website. The GI center is a state-of-the-art facility based at our Somerville Hospital campus, 230 Highland Avenue in Somerville, MA. You will need a referral from a doctor to make an appointment.