What is colon cancer?
Colon cancer is the growth of cells that begins in a part of the large intestine. These clumps of cells form polyps, which generally are not cancerous, but can turn into colon cancer over time.
Symptoms:
- More frequent diarrhea or constipation
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- A feeling that the bowel does not fully empty during a bowel movement
- Weakness or tiredness
- Losing weight without trying
Colon cancer symptoms often mimic CF-related GI symptoms.
Screening Recommendations
People with CF are 5-10 times more likely than the general population to develop colon cancer, while individuals with CF post-lung transplant have 25-30 times the risk. CF carriers are also at a higher risk of developing colon cancer.
Early detection is key!
CFRI believes that people with CF should be screened for colon cancer earlier than the current CFF recommended age of 40 for one’s first colonoscopy (30 post- transplant). Advocating for early screening can save your life.
Colon Cancer Patient Information & Advocacy Flyer
Cáncer de colon y fibrosis quística
Anna Payne’s Colon Cancer Story
Colon Cancer Awareness PSA: Part 1 & Part 2 [Video]
Embracing the Future: CF & Colon Cancer [Video]
Colonoscopies Save Lives: An Update from Anna Payne [Video]
Understanding Gastrointestinal Cancers in Cystic Fibrosis [Video]
Tips for Improving the Colonoscopy Prep Experience [Video]
2022 Spring Newsletter: Do you have CF? A Colonoscopy Can Save Your Life