A free online educational tool is now available to help individuals determine if they are at risk for colorectal cancer. The interactive tool, which was developed by gastroenterologists at Rush University Medical Center and Rush Health Associates, includes a brief questionnaire about health history and assesses each individual's need for further evaluation. The online tool can be accessed at RushHealthAssociates.

Although colorectal cancer is considered highly preventable by health experts, it is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States for both men and women combined. In the United States, the American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates 55,170 people will die this year of a disease that can often be stopped if caught early.

"Many people don't consider themselves at risk for this disease," says Dr. Ece Mutlu, a gastroenterologists at Rush who helped develop the online education tool, "when the truth is that everyone is at risk; some groups are just at a higher risk." These higher risk groups include: men and women 50 years of age and older; anyone with a family history of colorectal cancer; anyone who has had precancerous polyps; anyone who uses tobacco, drinks alcohol to excess, is obese or leads a sedentary life; and anyone with a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

"The single most important thing you can do in the fight against colorectal cancer is to begin screening at the appropriate age," says Dr. Marc Brand, surgical director of the Sandra Rosenberg Registry for Hereditary and Familial Colon Cancer at Rush University Medical Center. "This online screening survey can be the first step in protecting colorectal health."

Early detection and routine check-ups for colon cancer can save lives. In fact, the death rate from colorectal cancer has been going down for the past 15 years, according to the ACS. Doctors credit the decreased numbers of people who get colorectal cancer to screenings, such as stool blood tests and colonoscopies. These and other tests can help doctors identify polyps that can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screenings can also detect colorectal cancer at its earliest stages when it is easier to treat and possibly cure.

"This online tool is a cost-effective way for individuals to assess their risk and it demonstrates our commitment to clinical excellence and our focus on prevention and disease management," says Brent Estes, president and CEO of Rush Health Associates and vice president of managed care services at Rush University Medical Center.

Rush Health Associates is a not-for-profit organization whose members include Rush University Medical Center, Rush Oak Park Hospital, and approximately 700 primary and specialty care physicians who practice at its hospital members. Rush Health Associates seeks to enhance health care quality, health promotion, preventive care and communications with patients.

For more information, please visit RushHealthAssociates

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