SALEM — Colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum) is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States, but is highly treatable and often preventable with early detection.

“Most colorectal cancers start as benign polyps or growths on the lining of the colon,” said William Lee, M.D., FACS, a board certified general surgeon affiliated with Salem General Surgery and Salem Regional Medical Center’s (SRMC) medical staff. “Polyps often produce no symptoms, but may become cancerous over time. For this reason, doctors recommend regular screening tests to look for polyps in the colon.”

“Early-stage screening and removal of precancerous polyps before they become cancerous, can greatly increase survival. When detected in the earliest stage of the disease, the survival rate is greater than ninety percent.”

Lee recommends adults begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45, and then continue being screened at regular intervals. Individuals with a family history of colon cancer or personal history of other cancers or colorectal diseases, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, are at increased risk.

“If you are at an increased risk for colorectal cancer, your doctor may advise being screened earlier,” he added.

Recommended screenings could include stool tests, colonoscopies, and virtual CT colonoscopies. Both a traditional colonoscopy and virtual colonoscopy can find precancerous polyps, before they turn into cancer. Lee advises patients talk to their health care providers about which screening options are right for them.

Colorectal cancer screenings, including traditional and virtual CT colonoscopies, can be performed at SRMC with a physician’s order. To schedule an appointment with Lee, contact 330-337-2868.

To create greater awareness of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, SRMC and the Grizzly Bean Coffee House are hosting a fundraiser in which 20% from all coffee product sales through the Look Nook Gift Shop will support the SRMC Cancer Fund. For information, stop in or call the Look Nook at 330-332-7252.