The future is inevitable, but you can change its path at any time.

Peek At Your Poop

THANKS FOR JOINING US!

WE’RE HERE TO BREAK THE STIGMA – IT’S OKAY TO TALK ABOUT YOUR POOP!

COLOR, SIZE, SHAPE, AND SMELL ALL MATTER.

take a peek after every bowel movement and make note of changes.

ongoing changes warrant a discussion with your medical team, which is okay!

Early detection of colorectal cancer can make all the difference.

But, don’t assume your symptoms are a diagnosis of crc.

Let’s Start with Bowel Changes

Diarrhea? Constipation? Changes in Shape? Color? Frequency? Difficulty Pooping?

Examine the examples below to determine if your changes warrant a discussion with the doctor.

Type 1

Separate hard lumps, like nuts that are hard to pass

Type 2

Sausage-shaped but lumpy

Type 3

Like a sausage or snake, smooth and soft

Type 4

Soft blobs with clear-cut edges (passed easily)

Type 5

Soft blobs with clear-cut edges (passed easily)

Type 6

Fluffy pieces with ragged edges, a mushy stool

Type 7

Watery, no solid pieces, entirely liquid

Types 1 & 2 are typically signs of constipation

Types 3 – 5 are normal, healthy stools

Types 6 & 7 are diarrhea

Bowel colors can be concerning too. Before you panic, consider your diet – food can influence your poop.

Hover over the shades below to determine whether or not your stool color warrants medical intervention.

BROWN

YOUR GUT IS HEALTHY

BLACK

TOO MUCH IRON OR SIGNS OF OLD BLOOD

GRAY

MAY BE CAUSED BY MEDICATION, BUT ALSO LACK OF BILE IN STOOL

GREEN

COULD BE A BACTERIAL INFECTION, MEDICATIONS YOU'RE TAKING, OR DIET

YELLOW

COULD BE A SIGN OF INTESTINAL DISEASE

RED

CALL YOUR DOCTOR, PLEASE!

Bowel habits can change due to diet, exercise, stress, hydration, medications, or health issues

Check daily—if your poop changes, consider recent lifestyle changes and adjust to get back on track.

If it persists for several days, consider contacting your medical team.

Learn the Signs & Symptoms as if your Life Depended on It! 

Colorectal cancer may not cause symptoms early on — but when it does, you might notice one or more of the following signs or symptoms.  

Many of these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, such as infections, hemorrhoids, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Still, if you experience any of these signs, don’t ignore them. Talk to your doctor right away so the cause can be identified and treated if needed.

Remember: It’s OK to talk about poop! Your health depends on it.

Click below to see common signs and symptoms of CRC.

Do You Know the Risk Factors?

Below you’ll find several risk factors that may increase your likelihood of developing Colorectal Cancer. 

If you have any of these factors, it is important to share them with your doctor and ensure they are well documented in your medical history.

DIET

High intake of ultra-processed foods, Low Fiber Intake, and High Consumption of Refined Carbohydrates and Sugary Food can lead to an increased risk of CRC

LIFESTYLE FACTORS

Smoking, Excessive Alcohol Use, Obesity, and limited Physical Activity have all been attributed to an increased rate for CRC.

FAMILY HISTORY

Do you have any 1st or 2nd degree relatives with CRC? It is important to know your family history including age of diagnosis, stages, and if genetic testing occurred.

INHERITED GENETIC SYNDROMES

Some inherited genetic syndromes are associated with increased risk for CRC including Lynch Syndrome, Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP), and Serrated Polyposis Syndrome (SPS).

GI HEALTH CONDITIONS

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, such as Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease can lead to an increased risk of CRC.

Still Concerned?

We’re not here to scare you, but there are steps that you can take to ensure a healthy and happy life. 

Start a “Symptoms” and/or Food Journal

When did your symptoms start?

Are the symptoms getting worse or staying consistent?

How severe is your pain (if any)?

Any noticeable weight loss?

Discuss Your Options with a Medical Professional

What diagnostic test is recommended?

FIT Test? Stool DNA? Blood test?

Colonoscopy (a picture is a good thing)?

What lifestyle adjustments are critical?

What is the follow-up timeline?