Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or the rectum and ranks as the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths nationwide. The disease gets in the inner lining of your colon (large intestine) or rectum when polyps, or small growths, become cancerous over time. Colon and rectal cancer are grouped together because they have a lot in common.
Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer
Risk factors for colon cancer include:
age, most commonly over 50
a history of colorectal cancer
a history of inflammatory bowel disease
a family history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps
genetics
being Native American, Alaska Native or African American
diabetes
being overweight
smoking
heavy alcohol use
Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer
Symptoms may not happen right away, but talk to your provider about these:
changes in your bowl movements
blood in your stool
diarrhea, constipation or being unable to empty your bowel completely
pain in the abdomen, aches or cramps that persist
unexplained weight loss
Get Screened
Colorectal cancer can be treated successfully if caught early. That’s why getting screened is so important. Screening for colorectal cancer includes a colonoscopy and is recommended for adults 45 and older once every ten years. Your plan covers preventive colonoscopies beginning at age 45 at no cost to you.
Depending on your risk factors, you may need a colonoscopy earlier or more frequently. Talk to your provider to find out if you need to be screened sooner.
Resources
Member Rewards
Earn up to $599 per year by shopping with Member Rewards, a program that rewards you for choosing a cost-effective, trusted provider for services like MRIs, CT scans, colonoscopies, and mammograms.
Provider Finder®
Use Provider Finder® to find out where you can get your in-network colonoscopy. You can also find a Primary Care Provider to talk about what is right for you.
Let's Move by UnitedHealthcare®
Mental well-being is just as important as physical health. Stay socially connected by joining clubs, volunteering, or taking classes. Consider mindfulness practices like meditation or tai chi to reduce stress. Check out Let's Move by UnitedHealthcare®, available at no added cost to you! With simple resources, tools, fun events and personalized support, Let's Move by UnitedHealthcare is here to help keep your mind, body and social life active. Start today at Let's Move by UnitedHealthcare .
Real Appeal®
Lose weight with a personal coach and a program designed just for you. Real Appeal is a proven weight management program designed to help you get healthier and stay healthier. It's available to you and eligible family members at no added cost as part of your TRS-Care Medicare Advantage benefits. Join today at Real Appeal by Rally Coach.
Silver Sneakers
Thirty minutes of moderate physical activity each day can help control diabetes and obesity – two risk factors for colorectal cancer. As a TRS-Care Medicare Advantage participant, you have access to SilverSneakers, a fitness and lifestyle program, at no added cost. It includes:
- Memberships to thousands of fitness locations — visit as many times as you wish
- Group exercise classes for all abilities — fun activities held outside the gym
- SilverSneakers On-DemandTM — online workout videos that feature tips on fitness and nutrition
- SilverSneakers LIVE — virtual classes and workshops throughout the week
- SilverSneakers GOTM mobile app
Get started today. Visit SilverSneakers.com or call 1-888-423-4632, TTY 711.
Wellness Coaching
Online and live coaching support that provides access to a variety of digital health and wellness courses. For Wellness Coaching, call 1-800-478-1057, TTY 711.