improves. Serious cases may require surgery. The incidence of diverticulitis has been rising in recent de-
cades, though it is difficult to measure because many patients are asymptomatic. Researchers estimate that 50 to 66 percent of people over the age of 80 have this condition, which is uncommon in those under the age of 40.
Colorectal Cancer
People over the age of 50 are at greater risk for colorectal can- cer, but it is most frequently diagnosed among people ages 65 to 74. Colon/rectal cancer is the second leading cause of can- cer death in the United States, with the highest percentage of deaths occurring among people ages 75 to 84. It accounts for roughly eight percent of all new cancer cases. Symptoms in- clude blood in the stool, weight loss, abdominal or back pain, constipation and diarrhea. Many people don’t have any symptoms in the early stages,
so it’s important to get screened. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening using fecal occult blood testing, sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy in adults ages 50 to 75. The American Cancer Society recommends that one of the following tests be given for people at average risk: a sigmoid- oscopy every five years, a colonoscopy every ten years, a barium enema every five years or a virtual colonoscopy every five years.
Screening is not recommended for adults over the age of 75 26 | MATTERS OF HEALTH
who have previously had routine screenings, though it is con- sidered for those who have never been screened. For those over the age of 85, no screening is recommended. However, as always, it’s important to discuss your personal health histo- ry with your provider when making a decision about whether and how often to undergo any type of medical testing.
Peptic Ulcers
Peptic ulcers — open sores located in the stomach or upper small intestine — can also cause gastrointestinal distress symptoms, including stomach pain, heartburn, bloating, nau- sea and intolerance of fatty foods.
The most common causes of peptic ulcers are bacte-
ria called H. pylori, certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) pain relievers, and other medications that may be part of a treatment plan for patients with a blood clot, osteo- porosis or depression and anxiety. Your healthcare provider may recommend a treatment plan that could include antibiotics, antacids or acid blockers, stom- ach protectors and stopping NSAIDS and other drugs suspect- ed to be the cause. Smoking, drinking alcohol, high stress and spicy foods can make an ulcer worse or harder to heal. If symptoms become severe, see your provider immediately. Dangerous symptoms that should be checked out include vomit with blood that might look red or black, dark red or tarry stools, changes in appetite and unexplained weight loss.
