March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month: Third Most Common Cancer in Men, Women

Statistics show colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, and the third most common cancer in both men and women.

As March marks colon cancer awareness month, health officials note the importance of early screenings, particularly for those at higher risk for colon cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, there will be an estimated 96,830 new cases of colon cancer with 40,000 new cases of rectal cancer in 2014 alone. The risk of developing colorectal cancer is about 1 in 20, according to the health organization.

For those 50 and up, it's recommended that both men and women receive a screening test in order to detect possible signs of precancerous cells. There are many tests to find polyps and other cancer, including  a flexible sigmoidoscopy for every 5 years, a colonscopy for every 10 years or a double-contrast barium enema for every 5 years. CT colonography or a virtual colonoscopy can also be an option every 5 years.

Other tests that primarily look for colorectal cancers include a yearly fecal occult blood test or stool DNA test.

Certain factors can put some individuals at a greater risk for colon cancer, including smoking, unhealthy eating habits, and a genetic history of colon cancer. Overweight and obese individuals are also at an increased risk for the health issue.

To learn more about the risks of this health issue and how you can help out, vis the American Cancer Society's website, here.