2000 Stats and Guidelines for Colorectal Cancer

Cancers of the colon and rectum account for 10% of all cancers in the United States. Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death among both men and women. Despite recent decreases, the American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that about 130,200 new cases of colorectal cancer will be diagnosed this year, and that about 56,300 Americans will die from it. For the mid-Atlantic region, the ACS estimates about 15,100 new cases and 9,300 cancer deaths.

State New Cases Deaths

Delaware 400 200

District of Columbia 300 100

Maryland 2,600 1,100

Pennsylvania 7,800 3,400

Virginia 2,900 1,300

West Virginia 1,100 500

Total 15,100 9,300

Based on Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) data, five-year survival rates for colon cancer have increased significantly from 50% during 1974-1976 to 62% during 1989-1995. Likewise, five-year survival rates for rectal cancer have also increased significantly from 49% to 60%.
The ACS recommends the following screening guidelines for the early detection of colorectal cancer for people in the general population without symptoms or a family history of cancer:
Starting at age 50:

Fecal occult blood test every year and flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years OR
Double contrast barium enema every 5-10 years OR
Colonoscopy every 10 years

Note: Digital rectal exam should be performed with each sigmoidoscopy, barium enema, and colonoscopy.
The average man or woman has a 1 in 18 chance of developing colorectal cancer during his or her lifetime. If there is a family history of colorectal cancer, then the person may be at increased risk. Therefore, it is very important to know one's family history of cancer. Talk to a health professional if you have any concerns.
References
Greenlee, RT Murray, T, Bolden, S, and PA Wingo. (2000). Cancer statistics, 2000. CA A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, 50: 7-33.
Smith, RA, Mettlin, CJ, Johnston, K and H Eyre. (2000). American Cancer Society guidelines for the early detection of cancer. CA A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, 50: 34-49.
Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Program 1973-1996, Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute.