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Month: March 2023

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As we near the end of March and Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month comes to an end, it’s important to remember what symptoms you should be watching out for and how to know when to call your doctor. Colorectal Cancer is often found once it has progressed, since many people don’t have symptoms or ignore the symptoms that they do suffer from. Many common signs can also be caused by other less serious problems, such as infection, hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome, or inflammatory bowel disease. Keep reading to learn what symptoms to look out for, ways to prevent, and when to see your doctor.

Common Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer:

  • A change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool, that lasts for more than a few days
  • Feeling like you need to empty your bowels
  • Blood in stool
  • Cramping or pain in the abdomen
  • Rectal Bleeding
  • Weakness or Fatigue
  • Unexplained Weight Loss

When to Call Your Doctor

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, or are having any bowel issues, it is important to visit your Primary Care Physician to explain your symptoms and discuss the possibility of colorectal cancer. If your doctor suspects the possibility of cancer, or you are over the age of 45, they will suggest a screening.

How to Prevent Colorectal Cancer

With symptoms often being minor, or possibly having no symptoms at all, it is common for people to not find out they have colorectal cancer until it has progressed and spread. Because of this, it is crucial to get screened, even if you don’t have any symptoms. Doctors recommend getting screened if you are over the age of 45, or if you have a family history of colon cancer. Finding cancer early often allows for more treatment options and a higher rate of survival. Colorectal cancer screenings can help find cancer in people that don’t have symptoms, which can be life saving. Screenings can not only detect cancer, it can help prevent by finding and removing pre-cancerous growths called polyps. Lifestyle changes like exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, not using tobacco, cutting out alcohol, etc., can also help prevent colorectal cancer.

During Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and all year long, take the opportunity to learn more about the disease and share what you know with others. Colorectal cancer is typically slow growing, so with proper screening and early diagnosis, there are many treatment options and hopeful outcomes. Take this time to talk to your doctor about screening options for colorectal cancer.

For a complete list of Southwoods Health physicians who perform colonoscopies, click the “Learn More” button below.

 

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March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to educate yourself and others about the disease that affects about 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women according to the American Cancer Society. While anyone can get colon cancer, there are some factors that can put you at a higher risk.

Lifestyle

Lifestyle plays a prominent role in your overall health, and is no different when it comes to colorectal cancer. Things like staying active, eating a healthier diet, and visiting the doctor regularly for screenings can ensure you stay healthy and reduce your chances of getting colorectal cancer.

Age

Unfortunately, the number one risk factor of colorectal cancer is one you cannot control – age. About 90% of colon cancer patients are over the age of 50. The American Cancer Society recommends regular screenings start at age 45 and continue through age 75. For patients between 76 and 85, screening decisions should be made jointly with your doctor based on patient preference, life expectancy, health status and prior screening history.

Weight 

If you’re overweight or obese, you are at a much higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. Maintaining a healthy diet combined with exercise can help you stay at a healthy weight and reduce your risk. Eating fruits and vegetables is a vital part of a healthy diet and has been linked to lowering the risk of colon cancer and other diseases. A diet rich with foods that are nutrient packed and high in antioxidants and fiber can help decrease your risk and benefit your overall health.

Family History

If a family member, especially a parent or sibling, has had colon cancer, you are at a much higher risk because you share genetics and the same environment. If colon cancer is in your family, be sure to tell your doctor. It is important to pay attention to possible symptoms and get screened regularly.

Alcohol & Tobacco Use

Drinking alcohol in excess can be a risk factor for colon cancer. Drinking can increase the workload on the liver, which causes more toxins to build up and pass through the colon. It is important to drink in moderation or cut out alcohol completely. Smoking has also been linked to colon cancer, among many other types of cancers and health issues. It is best to quit smoking altogether to lower your risk. Quitting can be tough, so consult your doctor to create a plan that works for you.

During Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and all year long, take the opportunity to learn more about the disease and find out how you can take steps to keep your colon healthy. Finding colorectal cancer early, when it’s small and hasn’t spread, often allows for more treatment options and more successful outcomes. Talk to your doctor today!

For a complete list of Southwoods Health physicians who perform colonoscopies, click the “Learn More” button below.

 

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Howland, Ohio (March 2, 2023) — Southwoods Health is pleased to announce the opening of its newest location at 9371 East Market Street, Suite 2 in Howland. This new site brings expert pain management, spine, orthopaedic and imaging services to Trumbull County.

It is the latest addition to Southwoods’ expanding network of physicians, specialists and facilities throughout the Mahoning Valley, offering patients improved access to the important care they need close to home.

The Howland facility also introduces the first 3T MRI to Trumbull County, providing patients with the most advanced imaging technology available in medicine today. This system’s capabilities ensure the highest quality images with the most enhanced anatomical detail.

“When you combine state-of-the-art technology with the medical expertise of our specialists, it creates an unbeatable combination to accurately diagnose and treat a wide range of disorders,” explained Ed Muransky, Southwoods Health CEO. “Most importantly, patient care in Howland is delivered with a focus on quality and compassion – something you’ll find at all Southwoods locations.”

For more information, call (330) 965-5090 or visit SouthwoodsHealth.com/Howland.

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