At age 52, Rick Sterling did not have any symptoms of colorectal cancer but he did have a family history, so Mr. Sterling scheduled a colonoscopy. That screening resulted in a diagnosis of cancer and he was referred to board certified Colorectal Surgeon Dr. Erik Grossmann and his team at Columbia Surgical Associates. As of March 2nd, Mr. Sterling is 5 years cancer free.
We wear blue to recognize Mr. Sterling and all patients who are battling colorectal cancer and the importance of regular colorectal cancer screening. Pictured with Mr. Sterling and Dr. Grossmann are CSA staff Sharon McCoy, Stephanie Long, Tiffany Gilpin, RN, Tammy Chitwood, RN. and Deb Dorman, all part of the team who have worked with Mr. Sterling over the last 5 years.
According to the Center for Disease Control, “among cancers that affect both men and women, colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum) is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States.” With regular screening, colon cancer can be found early and in many cases is treatable. For additional health tips, like us on Facebook.
Know Your Risk Factors
While the exact cause of colorectal cancer remains unknown, studies have found that the following may increase the chance of developing this type of cancer:
- Age 45 if you have an average risk
- Age 50 for Men and Women
- The presence of colorectal polyps (growths on the inner wall of the colon or rectum)
- Family history of colorectal cancer
- Smoking
- Type 2 diabetes
- Ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
- Heavy alcohol use
- Lack of physical activity
- A diet rich in red meats (beef, liver, etc.) and processed meats (bacon, hot dogs, etc.)
- Being obese
Board Certified Colorectal Surgeon, Dr. Erik Grossmann shares risk factors for color cancer.
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