Patient Education
Screening for Colon Cancer
Frank S. Pancotto, M.D., FACP
Introduction
Cancer of the Colon and Rectum, colorectal cancer (CRC), is a common and potentially fatal disease. Approximately one-third of individuals who develop colon cancer die from it. The good news is - it is preventable. The average person has approximately a 5% lifetime risk of developing colon cancer. 90% of these occur in persons over 50 years old. Black Americans have a higher risk of dying from colon cancer that do white Americans. American Indians and Hispanics have a lower risk. Cigarette smoking, diets high in fat and red meat both increase risk. Calcium supplements, folic acid supplements and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen all decrease risk.
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Crohn's Disease
Thomas A. Dalton, M.D.
Introduction
Crohn’s disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It most often involves the lower small intestine (Ileum) and the colon but any part of the GI tract from mouth to anus may
be affected. The inflammation causes ulceration in the lining of the GI tract resulting in the common
symptoms of pain, diarrhea, and possibly bleeding.
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are the two most common inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Men
and women are affected equally and there is a tendency for these conditions to run in families. About 20% of those with Crohn’s disease will have a close relative with IBD.
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Diverticular Disease
David F. Rhodes, M.D.
Introduction
Diverticular disease is common in the United States. While only 5% of the population is affected prior to age 40, 65% are affected by age 80. A majority of people with diverticulosis will not experience complications, however; 15-25% will develop diverticulitis and 5-15% will develop some type of bleeding.
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Educational Links
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC)
Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA)
The American College of Gastroenterology (ACG)
