Colorectal cancer forms in either the colon or the rectum, parts of the body's gastrointestinal (digestive) system. It is the second leading cause of cancer related death in this country. Over 56,000 people died last year from colon cancer. One in 20 U.S. citizens will experience the disease in their lifetime, and in many ethnic groups the numbers are much higher.

The good news is that Colon cancer is curable over 80% of the time when diagnosed and treated early. Beginning at age 50, both men and women at average risk for developing colorectal cancer should be screened. Talk to your doctor about which test is best for you.

Risk Factors For Colon Cancer Include:

• A personal history of colorectal polyps, previously treated colorectal cancer, or inflammatory bowel disease
• Race : African Americans are more likely to get colorectal cancer than other racial or ethnic groups
• Physical inactivity
• Eating a diet high in fat (especially from red meat)
• Obesity / Smoking / Alcohol use
• Eating a diet low in fruits and vegetables
• Having a family history of colorectal cancers, certain other cancers, and benign colon polyps (Fewer than 10% of colorectal cancers are caused by inherited gene mutations.)