are projected to die from colorectal cancer this year. Although colorectal cancer is the second-most common cause of cancer deaths in the United States, it can be cured if caught early. Detecting a tumor as soon as possible can help you get treatment as soon as possible, giving you the best chance for survival., I treat patients from every background and walk of life. Uniting them are a growing number of insurance barriers threatening access to timely care.
are significantly more likely to develop – and die from – colorectal cancer. While genetics does play a role in disease development, much of the risk of colorectal cancer is linked to. These include a person’s income level, types of food and groceries available in the neighborhood, access to primary care providers and specialists, and a wide variety of other social determinants of health.like smoking, not exercising regularly and poor diet can also increase your colon cancer risk.
Some insurers are changing their policies in ways that make it more difficult for patients to get coverage for cancer screening. Frederic Cirou/PhotoAlto Agency RF Collections via Getty Imagesthat would have required the 27 million people under their plan to obtain insurance approval before they could get diagnostic or follow-up colonoscopies.
Younger adults can take steps to reduce their risk of colon cancer by adopting healthy eating and lifestyle behaviors. Being aware of personal risk factors and seeking medical attention for symptoms – such as changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain or unexplained weight loss – can help you discuss screening options with your health care provider.
If you have already had a colonoscopy and had polyps removed, make sure you know when you are due to return for a follow-up colonoscopy. It could save your life.