Colon and Rectal Cancer

Put Prevention Into Practice

Name:______________________________________________________

RX for Prevention: ___________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________

Follow-up:___________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________

Clinician's Signature: _________________________________________

Date:_______________________________________________________

• Cancer of the colon and rectum is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. If it is found early, it can be treated more easily than if it is found late. Effective tests are available to find cancer of the colon and rectum.
• Starting at 50 years of age, you should be tested for colon cancer.
  • Ask your doctor which colorectal cancer test would be best for you.
  • Ask your doctor how often you should be tested.
• Tell your doctor if you have had polyps or if you have family members with cancer of the colon. If so, you may need to be tested more often.
• You may be able to reduce your risk of developing cancer of the colon or rectum if you do the following:
  • Eat a variety of foods, especially vegetables, fruits, dry beans such as red beans, whole grains such as corn and barley, and whole-grain breads and cereals.
  • Eat foods low in fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol (e.g., fish, poultry prepared without skin, lean meat, and low-fat dairy products).
  • Get at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.

Current as of January 2003

Return to Document