Fact:At least 6 out of every 10 deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented if all men and women aged 50 years or older were screened routinely.

Fact:The American Cancer Society estimated that in 2011 about 141,210 people were diagnosed with colorectal cancer in the US.

Fact:The American Cancer Society estimated that in 2011 about 49,380 people died of colorectal cancer in the US.

Fact:Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer.

Fact:Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death in both men and women in the US.

Fact:Overall, 90% of new cases and 94% of deaths occur in individuals 50 and older.

Fact:Colorectal cancer incidence and mortality rates are highest in African American men and women.

Fact:One of the most consistently reported relationships between colon cancer risk and behavior is the protective effect of physical activity.

Fact:The goals of screening for colorectal cancer are the prevention of cancer through the detection and removal of precancerous growths and the diagnosis of cancers at an early stage.

Diseases

Achalasia

Print View

Achalasia is a relatively rare disorder of the esophagus (the passageway from the mouth to the stomach) that makes it difficult for food and liquid to pass into the stomach. Achalasia is caused by a malfunction in the nerves controlling the esophagus muscles and the valve (sphincter) between the esophagus and stomach. Achalasia symptoms develop gradually and people often wait years before seeking medical treatment. Achalasia is diagnosed with the combination of upper endoscopy (EGD) and High Definition Esophageal Manometry at the Heartland Center for Motility within Gastroenterology Consultants. Balloon-dilation may be able to treat Achalasia, but often surgery is required to correct this problem.