Local Cancer Research Group Encourages Awareness of Colon Cancer In March

Fayetteville, AR, March 23, 2015 (Newswire.com) - March is National Colon Cancer Awareness Month and, as Northwest Arkansas’ leading cancer research group, Highlands Oncology Group (HOG) supports the awareness and education of colorectal cancer in Northwest Arkansas, throughout the year and in March.

March was officially dedicated as National Colon Cancer Awareness month in February 2000 by former president Bill Clinton, according to the Colon Cancer Alliance.

Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States when men and women are considered separately, and the second leading cause when both sexes are combined, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). It is expected to cause about 49,700 deaths in 2015, according to the ACS.

Cancer that begins in the colon is called colon cancer, and cancer that begins in the rectum is called rectal cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI). Cancer that starts in either of these organs may also be called colorectal cancer, according to the NCI. 

People can reduce the chances of developing colon cancer by regularly exercising, drinking alcohol in moderation (if at all), avoid smoking, maintaining a healthy weight and eating a variety of vegetables, fruits and whole grains, according to the Mayo Clinic.

The symptoms of colon cancer, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, include abdominal pain and tenderness in the lower abdomen, blood in the stool, diarrhea, constipation, or other changes in bowel habits, narrow stools and weight loss with no known reason.

People are encouraged to begin annual colorectal screenings by age 50, according to the Mayo Clinic. 

As the leading cancer treatment and research facility in Northwest Arkansas, HOG is dedicated to the advancement of cancer treatment to provide patients with the best possible care and results.

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Highlands Oncology Group is a state-of-the-art facility, with a world-class team of specialists, that is committed to providing premier cancer treatment and to enhancing the quality of life of patients and their loved ones. Highlands Oncology group provides this in a friendly, comfortable environment conveniently located in Northwest Arkansas. Highlands offers the latest technology of diagnostic imaging and radiation therapies, on-site labs, a pharmacy and an infusion center. They also offer access to clinical trials, multidisciplinary clinics and support groups. Highlands Oncology Group is helping patients win the battle against cancer every day.

For more information visit www.HighlandsOncologyGroup.com