The month of March is being observed as the Colon Cancer Awareness month. As part of this month’s observations, colonoscopies are being offered to assess the risk of developing the disease.

Colon cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the U. S.

It is estimated that there are 131,000 Americans who are diagnosed with colon cancer and nearly 55,000 are consumed by the disease.

However, colon cancer is a type of cancer is which is preventable and curable if identified early.

It can be detected with a straightforward 15 minute screening procedure colonoscopy, which could prove life saving in patients who are afflicted with the disease but are unaware of it. Colonoscopy helps physicians detect and remove the polyps that cause colon cancer, diminishing the risk for developing the disease.

It is important to note that cancer of the colon lists second in cancer related deaths in men and women combined.

Colon cancer could run in the family. If a first degree relative, a mother, father, brother, or sister has suffered from the disease, there is a potential threat that any member of the family could suffer from the disease.

Though there are no specific indicators for colon cancer, symptoms like rectal bleeding, unprecedented weight loss or changes in regular bowel habits are warning signs.