Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer related death in the United States, yet it’s one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when found early. Screening plays a critical role, but symptoms can also be an important signal that something isn’t right.
To help you know when to speak with a doctor, Atrium Health Levine Cancer created the A.L.E.R.T. list - a simple way to remember the most common signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer.
A — Abdominal pain
Ongoing abdominal pain, cramping, or discomfort that doesn’t go away should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. While many conditions can cause stomach pain, persistent symptoms may point to colorectal cancer.
L — Loss of weight
Unexplained weight loss — without changes in diet or activity — can be an early warning sign that the body is under stress, including from cancer.
E — Emptying feels incomplete
Feeling like your bowel doesn’t fully empty after a bowel movement may signal a blockage or growth in the colon or rectum.
R — Rectal bleeding
Blood in or on the stool should never be ignored. While common issues like hemorrhoids can cause bleeding, rectal bleeding can also be an early sign of colorectal cancer.
T — Toilet habit changes
New or ongoing changes in bowel habits — such as diarrhea, constipation, or changes in stool consistency — may be a sign of colorectal cancer, especially if they last more than a few weeks.
Colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps don’t always cause symptoms at first, which is why routine screening is so important. For people at average risk, regular colorectal cancer screening is advised from ages 45 to 75, even if you feel healthy. If you have a family history (parent, sibling, or child) of colon cancer or precancerous polyps, you should have a colonoscopy at 40, or 10 years earlier than the age at which your family member was diagnosed. For those with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, a colonoscopy is recommended at least 8 years after diagnosis, regardless of your current age or how well you feel.
Bottom line, get screened if you are eligible and if your body sends an A.L.E.R.T., don’t ignore it because early detection saves lives.
Learn more about your colon cancer risk by using our health risk assessment tool: Colorectal Cancer Assessment.
