Colorectal Cancer: Know Your Risks, Screening Options, and How to Take Action

At a Glance

• A high-fat, low-fiber diet with red and processed meats may increase your risk of colorectal cancer.
• Smoking, moderate to heavy drinking, and a sedentary lifestyle are also contributing factors.
• Colonoscopy remains the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening, but there are other options.

Colorectal Cancer: A Preventable Disease

Dr. Darley Solomon has been a vocal advocate for colorectal cancer screening since returning home in 2011. As a frequent speaker at the Lions Club Prostate and Colon Cancer Event, he has led community talks under the powerful message: “No one should die because of colon cancer.”

Colorectal cancer rates in people under 50 have been steadily rising, and it remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. when combining figures for men and women.

“Colorectal cancer is a largely preventable disease, yet it remains one of the most common cancers worldwide. Understanding and addressing your risk factors can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing this disease.” Dr. Darley Solomon

Understanding the Risk Factors

Colorectal cancer can develop in any part of the colon or rectum, which together make up the large intestine, a critical part of the digestive system. Because everything you eat and drink passes through this system, your dietary habits may play a key role in your risk.

Modifiable Risk Factors: What You Can Change

There is no single cause of colorectal cancer, but certain lifestyle choices increase the likelihood of developing the disease.

• Unhealthy Diet: A high-fat, low-fiber diet and regular consumption of red and processed meats are associated with increased risk. Processed meats—such as deli meat, bacon, ham, pepperoni, salami, sausage, and hot dogs—contain preservatives and chemicals that have been linked to cancer.
• Smoking & Alcohol: Tobacco use and moderate to heavy alcohol consumption are both linked to a higher risk of colorectal cancer.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity increases the risk, so regular exercise is recommended for overall colon health.

Unchangeable Risk Factors: What You Should Monitor

While a healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk, some factors are out of your control. These include:

• Gender: Men are more likely to develop and die from colorectal cancer than women.
• Family History: A history of colorectal cancer in close relatives increases your risk.
• Genetic Syndromes: Conditions like Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis heighten the likelihood of colorectal cancer.
• Ethnicity: American Indian, Alaska Native, African American, and individuals of Ashkenazi Jewish descent have a higher risk.
• Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can increase the chances of colorectal cancer.

Screening Options: Find the Right One for You

Getting screened for colorectal cancer might feel like an inconvenience, but early detection can save your life. The right screening test for you depends on your risk level, medical history, access, and personal preferences. Regular screening is one of the most effective ways to detect and remove precancerous polyps before they become cancerous.

Colonoscopy: The Gold Standard

Colonoscopy is the most well-known and comprehensive screening method. Recommended every 10 years starting at age 45 for those at average risk, it is often covered by insurance. A major advantage is that if polyps are found, they can be removed during the procedure, preventing potential cancer development.

Virtual Colonoscopy

A virtual colonoscopy uses a CT scan to create images of the colon and rectum instead of using a traditional scope. This test is less invasive and does not require anesthesia, but it still requires bowel preparation. It’s recommended every five years, and if polyps are found, a traditional colonoscopy is needed for removal.

At-Home Screening Tests

For those seeking a more convenient option, at-home tests offer privacy and ease. However, these tests are not as thorough as a colonoscopy and must be done more frequently.

• Stool DNA Test: Detects DNA markers and blood in stool (every 3 years).
• Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) & Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): Detect blood in stool (annually).

If an at-home test is positive, a follow-up colonoscopy is necessary to confirm results and remove any polyps.

Note: At-home tests are a good option for those without access to colonoscopy, but they are not a replacement for more thorough screenings.

Watch for Symptoms

Routine screenings are meant for those without symptoms, but if you experience any of the following, see your doctor immediately:

• Persistent abdominal pain
• Rectal bleeding
• Changes in bowel habits
• Blood in the stool

Don’t assume rectal bleeding is just hemorrhoids. If something feels off, speak with your primary care provider.

Take Charge of Your Health

Colorectal cancer is preventable and treatable when caught early. Whether you opt for a colonoscopy, virtual screening, or an at-home test, the most important thing is to get screened. Talk to your doctor to determine the best option for you, because no one should die from colorectal cancer.

About Dr. Darley Solomon

Dr. Darley Solomon is a passionate advocate for colorectal cancer awareness and prevention. Since returning home in 2011, he has been dedicated to educating the community on the importance of early detection. To book a consultation, please call +1 (345) 325 9000.