March Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

The Wyoming Department of Health wants people to know that while colorectal cancer is deadly, it's also preventable and treatable.

State Health Officer Dr. Wendy Braund says the while colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths both in Wyoming and nationally, there are steps people can take to protect themselves. Experts say that includes regular screenings after age 50. Between 80 and 90 percent of patients with this cancer recover if the disease is detected early. Braund says some people, including those with a personal or family history of the disease should be screened at a younger age

Preventative measures include eating a low-fat, high fiber diet, exercising regularly and drinking only in moderation. People who smoke are advised to quit, especially if they also drink alcohol.