Interested in The Queen's Medical Center's expansion plans?
SHARE
Retired couple looking at camera

Colon Cancer: Reducing your risk

Have you had your annual colon screening? It could save your life.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. Cancer of the colon and rectum are often preventable as screening may often detect these cancers prior to the onset of symptoms, or at early stages when a cure is more possible.

Screenings are done with your primary care physician or a gastroenterologist, and begin at age 50 for most people. Those who have a family history of certain cancers and have other risk factors should check with their doctor to start screenings earlier.

Decrease your colon cancer risk:

  • Increase your physical activity
  • Eat a diet high in fruits & vegetables
  • Lose excess weight
  • Limit alcohol
  • Quit smoking
  • Cut out or limit red & processed meats

The Queen’s Gastroenterology Services teams at Punchbowl and West Oahu care for patients with conditions of the esophagus, stomach, pancreas, biliary tract, small intestine and large intestine (colon and rectum). Ask your primary care provider to make a referral or contact us and our staff will call your doctor for you.