This week's artwork was donated by Sarah, a pediatric cancer patient who received treatment at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia . 156,000 Americans will be diagnosed this year with colorectal cancer and 57,000 will die from the disease.
Most colon cancers begin as benign polyps, and cancer can be prevented by removal of the polyps.
Men and women are equally at risk for colorectal cancer. For most Americans, standard screening with sigmoidoscopy and checking the stool for blood should begin at age 50. Colorectal cancer is most curable when found before it causes symptoms. When symptoms are present, the cancer may still be curable if not ignored. Regular exercise and a diet rich in vegetables, fruits and high fiber foods as well as adequate intake of folic acid and calcium may help to prevent colorectal cancer but are no substitute for regular screening.