The Georgia Department of Human Resources (DHR) is encouraging all Georgians ages 50 and older to get checked for colorectal cancer by their healthcare provider. This March is the seventh annual Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cause of cancer death among both men and women in the United States, and in Georgia. The good news is most of these deaths can be prevented using available screening tests and treatments.

"Colorectal cancers claim the lives of more than 1,500 Georgians each year. However, the survival rate from this type of cancer is 90% or more when it is detected early," said Dr. Stuart Brown, director for the Division of Public Health. "About 75% of new colorectal cancer cases occur in patients with no known risk factors, making routine screening extremely important."

At least one-third of colorectal cancer deaths could be avoided if Georgians followed colorectal screening guidelines, according to the American Cancer Society. Most colorectal cancers develop from polyps, noncancerous growths that can change over time into cancer. Screenings can lead to removal of polyps and actually prevent cancer.

"It is unfortunate that many people avoid colorectal cancer screening because of fear or anxiety. Georgians need to know the importance of colorectal screening to protect themselves and their loved ones from colorectal cancer," Brown said.

The exact causes of colorectal cancer are unknown. However, studies indicate certain factors are associated with an increased risk for the disease. Age is the primary risk factor for colorectal cancer. A family history of colorectal cancer and/or polyps, or a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease may also increase the risk. Recent studies also suggest that tobacco users are 30% to 40% more likely than nonsmokers to die from colorectal cancer.

The American Cancer Society recommends that beginning at age 50, men and women who are at average risk for developing colorectal cancer undergo annual screenings. Several options for colorectal screening are available. People are encouraged to talk to their healthcare provider about the right type test and how often they should be screened based on age, family history, and other possible risk factors.

Health officials say there are steps people can take to maintain colorectal health and reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer, including: getting regular colorectal screening tests; eating a low-fat diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains; drinking alcohol only in moderation; quitting tobacco; and engaging in at least moderate physical activity for 30 minutes or longer on five or more days of the week.

In collaboration with the Georgia Cancer Coalition, the Georgia Department of Human Resources continues to educate Georgians about the prevention of cancer and other chronic diseases, as well as the importance of early detection of cancer.

Getting Checked is a part of the Live Healthy Georgia campaign which also encourages Georgians to Eat Healthy, Be Active, Be Smoke Free and Be Positive. For more information about the Live Healthy Georgia Campaign, visit www.livehealthy georgia.org. To learn more about colorectal cancer, call 1-800-4CANCER (1-800-4226237) or visit www.georgiacancer.org.