Cancer Health

The big picture: Dr. Shelandra Bell says "...if caught early, colon cancer can be very well managed!"

In the news: Cases of colon cancer among young people in California and across America have doubled.

The key point: Researchers are unsure as to what is causing the rise in colorectal cancer among younger people. There is some research showing that higher rates of obesity and changes in our diets could be a cause for this spike in cancer among younger people.

Did you know that 28.9% of the adults living in Ventura County are obese?

Looking to improve your health?

Doctor's Insight about Colon Cancer and Younger People

The big picture: "...because of this increase in colon cancer, guidelines have recently changed. The USPSTF & American Cancer Society now recommend that everybody living in Ventura County, 45 years of age, and onwards, should get screened for colon cancer. Also, you're at a higher risk if a 'first-degree' family member has/had colon cancer. If this is the case, then you should get your colonoscopy even sooner. Talk to your doctor." Dr. Puja Uppal, Family Medicine.

U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Statement on Colon Cancer screenings. (Read it Here)

Next Steps: Talk to your doctor and get your colonoscopy! Most insurances in California will cover the screening colonoscopy.

Did you know that colorectal cancer is the 4th most common cancer in men and women?

In Ventura County, 38% of men and 31.4% over the age of 65 are up to date on their clinical preventative services. This includes: getting screened for colorectal cancer.

What they're saying:

"You just have to be cognizant that colorectal cancer is not an old person's disease anymore... (it's) a middle-aged people's disease now. And it seems not enough people are getting screened." Dr. John Ricci, Chief of Surgery. (Interview Source)

Source:

Digestive Diseases and Sciences published a comprehensive article: Increasing Colorectal Cancer Incidence Before and After Age 50: Implications for Screening Initiation and Promotion of "On-Time" Screening (Read it Here)

Colorectal Cancer Stats: (CDC)

Almost 53,000 deaths occur due to colorectal cancer each year.

Almost 153,000 Americans will be diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer this year.

13.5% of Ventura County residents rate their health "fair or poor."

The Health Standard Newswire