Although not a “pretty” topic to discuss colorectal cancer, (CRC) is the second leading cause of death for both men and women in the US. But, it CAN be prevented! Screening is the key to preventing colorectal cancers. Regular screenings should begin at the age of 50 y/o. The best procedure for screening is a colonoscopy. Yes, I know the prep is never fun, but getting a clean bill of health is worth it. If you are over the age of 75 y/o, have a conversation with your medical provider to determine the best screening tool for you. It is time to wipe away the stigma on these cancers and talk about it. No excuses… it could save your life or the life of a loved one. Some fast facts about CRC:

• CRC effects both men and women.
• Precancerous polyps (often found on colonoscopy) do not always cause symptoms.
• Only about 2/3 of adults over age 50 are up to date with their screenings.
• The Coronavirus pandemic has drastically slowed preventive CRC screenings, which leads to delays in early diagnosis and treatment

Risk factors for CRC include:

What you cannot control:

• Age: risk increases with age
• Personal history of polyps or previous CRC
• Having Irritable Bowel Disease (IBS), Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn’s Disease
• Family history/Genetics (especially if diagnosed before the age 50.)

What you can control:

• Smoking and Alcohol use (more than 1 adult beverage/day for women, 2/day for men)
• Consuming a diet high in fats (red meats, pork, liver and lunch meat, whole milk & cheese)
• Being overweight or obese
• Being inactive
• Having type 2 Diabetes

Don’t be a statistic. “Be Relentless”. Get screened. Have a talk with your health care professional. Today, March 5th, is “Wear Blue” for Colorectal Cancer Awareness day. So, if you haven’t dressed yet, choose something blue and show your support.

Mark your calendars

• March 9th: COVID-19 Booster day. All day. By appointment.
• March 16th: Hearing Aid Tune Up clinic. 9-11:00 am
• March 30th: Las Botanas Health Topic- Experts in Arthritis 1:30-2:30 pm
• April 6th: Toe Nail Trimmers- By appointment. Great News! We have spots available.
• April 20th: Hearing Aid Tune Up clinic. 9-11:00 am (spots available)

Please Call the Revitalize Wellness office to register 414/ 259-468.

A “Bad Dad” joke

• If spiders went to college, what would they study? - Web design