Colorectal Health Glossary: Key Terms Every Black Man Should Know
Let’s be real—when doctors start throwing around medical terms, it’s easy to zone out. But when it comes to colorectal cancer, knowing the right words could save your life.
Black men face the highest risk for colorectal cancer, yet many of us aren’t familiar with the key terms that can help us understand screenings, symptoms, and prevention.
That’s why we put together this Colorectal Health Glossary—a straightforward, no-fluff guide to terms every Black man should know. Whether you’re scheduling your first screening or just looking to stay informed, this list will help you take control of your health with confidence.
A
Adenoma: A type of polyp that can turn into colorectal cancer if left untreated.
Anemia: A condition where you have low red blood cells, often caused by internal bleeding from colorectal cancer.
At-Home Stool Test: A non-invasive test that checks for blood or abnormal DNA in your stool, which can be a sign of colorectal cancer.
B
Biopsy: A procedure where a small piece of tissue is removed and examined for cancer cells.
Blood in Stool: A common early sign of colorectal cancer, often appearing as bright red or dark, tarry stools.
C
Colonoscopy: A procedure where a doctor inserts a flexible tube with a camera into the colon to look for and remove polyps.
Colorectal Cancer: Cancer that starts in the colon or rectum, one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in Black men.
CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy): A non-invasive imaging test that provides detailed pictures of the colon and rectum.
D
Dietary Fiber: Found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, fiber helps keep your gut healthy and lowers colorectal cancer risk.
Diverticulosis: Small pouches that can form in the walls of the colon, which can sometimes cause discomfort but are not cancerous.
E
Early Detection: The key to preventing and surviving colorectal cancer. Finding it early increases survival rates to 90%.
Endoscopy: A procedure done using a flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) to examine structures inside your body up close.
F
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): A stool test that detects hidden blood, a possible sign of colorectal cancer.
Family History: If a parent, sibling, or close relative had colorectal cancer, your risk doubles.
G
Gastroenterologist: A doctor who specializes in digestive system diseases, including colorectal cancer.
Genetic Testing: A test that checks for inherited conditions, like Lynch syndrome, that increase colorectal cancer risk.
H
Hemorrhoids: Swollen veins in the rectum that can cause blood in the stool—but unlike colorectal cancer, they are not dangerous.
I
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Chronic conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis that increase colorectal cancer risk.
Iron Deficiency Anemia: A sign of internal bleeding, often caused by colorectal cancer.
L
Lynch Syndrome: A genetic condition that increases the risk of colorectal cancer and other cancers.
M
Metastasis: When cancer spreads beyond the colon to other organs like the liver or lungs.
Microscopic Blood in Stool: Hidden blood that can only be detected through stool tests like FIT or Cologuard.
P
Polyps: Small, abnormal growths in the colon that can turn into cancer if not removed.
Prevention: Healthy eating, regular screenings, and exercise can reduce your colorectal cancer risk.
R
Rectal Exam: A physical exam where a doctor checks for abnormalities in the lower rectum.
Risk Factors: Things that increase your likelihood of getting colorectal cancer—family history, obesity, smoking, diet, and lack of exercise.
S
Screening Guidelines: Start screening at 45 (or earlier if you have a family history). Regular screenings prevent colorectal cancer.
Sigmoidoscopy: A less invasive version of a colonoscopy that examines only the lower part of the colon.
Sedentary Lifestyle: Sitting too much and lack of physical activity increase colorectal cancer risk.
T
Tumor: An abnormal growth of cells that can be cancerous or non-cancerous.
Treatment Options: Includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.
W
Weight Loss (Unexplained): Losing weight without trying can be an early sign of colorectal cancer.
Knowledge is Power Over Cancer
Understanding your risk, screenings, and symptoms gives you the power to stay ahead of colorectal cancer.
Don’t let medical jargon keep you from asking the right questions. Use this glossary, talk to your doctor, and take action.
Because your health isn’t just about you—it’s about your family, your future, and your community.
We Got Your Back!
Heart, Body & Soul (HBS) is here to support you on your journey. At HBS, we are dedicated to raising awareness and connecting Black men with the knowledge and resources needed to prioritize their colon and gastrointestinal health. Through partnerships with wellness and health organizations, we help foster a community of support and education.
Stay informed by joining our mailing list and following us on Instagram for health & wellness insights, upcoming events, and ways to get involved. Want to support our mission? Donate today to help us continue advocating for Black men’s physical and mental well-being.
Disclaimer
Heart, Body & Soul (HBS) provides health education and resources to support the well-being of men of color, but we are not medical professionals. The information in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, or medical treatment plan.