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Colon Cancer Affects Black Americans in Disproportionate Numbers
March 15, 2023
More than 50,000 people die from colon cancer in the U.S. every year. It is the third most common cause of cancer overall and the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths.
But African-Americans will be diagnosed more often, at a younger age, and die more often from colon cancer than any other demographic. Colon cancer also seems to be in more advanced stages when it is diagnosed in African Americans.
Backus Hospital gastroenterologist Cassidy Alexandre, MD, will present a free, live webinar entitled “Colon Cancer: Health disparities in the Black community,” from 5:30-6:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 23.
> Register here
The event will cover topics including why Black men and women are at greater risk, the importance of screening and early detection, signs, symptoms and treatment options. Plus, there will be a live Q&A session.
Call 1.855.HHC.HERE (1.855.442.4373) or go to HartfordHealthCare.org/VirtualClasses to register. You must register in advance.
According to the American Cancer Society, “African Americans are about 20% more likely to get colorectal cancer and about 40% more likely to die from it than most other groups. The reasons for the differences are complex, but they largely reflect differences in risk factors and in health care access, both of which are related to socioeconomic status.”
Risk factors for colorectal cancer:
- Age
- African-American race
- Family history of colon polyps or colon cancer
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Smoking
- Obesity
Signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer:
- Rectal bleeding
- Unexpected weight loss
- Change in bowel pattern
- Abdominal discomfort