March is known as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. However, not many people know what colorectal cancer is. As a gastroenterologist in Beverly Hills, it is important for me to raise awareness of what it is, who it affects, and the symptoms of this particular cancer.
What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer is cancer of the rectum or colon that affects both, men and women. This cancer is one of the five top most diagnosed cancer in patients. Other cancers on this list are breast cancer, prostate, and bladder cancer. Most often, colorectal cancer starts as polyps, or growths, which can be detected in the colon or rectum’s inner lining. It is important to get these polyps checked out as they have the ability to turn malignant and/or cancerous over time.
Colorectal Cancer Symptoms
Some of the symptoms of Colorectal cancer include the following:
- Rectal bleeding
- Stomach pain/cramping
- Blood in the stool
- Changes in bowel movement (diarrhea, constipation, abnormal stool times, etc.)
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, make sure to visit a gastroenterologist in Beverly Hills.
Colorectal Cancer Risks
Colorectal cancer affects both, men and women. However, there are some attributes that certain individuals have that put them more at risk for colorectal cancer than others. Some of these include:
- Overweight
- High red meat diet
- Heavy alcohol intake
- Genetics
Any of these risk factors should be taken seriously and it is best to keep your colon health in check by visiting a gastroenterologist in Beverly Hills. Additionally, patients should make sure to visit their doctor annual for a physical exam. They should report any unusual symptoms in their rectum or colon.
About Dr. Peyton Berookim:
Dr. Berookim is a gastroenterologist in Beverly Hills known for his expertise in gastrointestinal matters. To schedule a consultation with this colonoscopy doctor, click here. You can follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for more updates and health tips.
