March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Screening starting at 45—earlier with risk factors—can prevent or detect colorectal cancer early
Written by Carl Bryce, Clinical Assistant Professor, Family Medicine
Midwestern University Multispecialty Clinic
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a great reminder to talk about an important—and often preventable—health issue. Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., but the good news is that screening works. When caught early, or even before cancer develops, outcomes are excellent.
Who should be screened? Most adults should begin screening at age 45, or earlier if you have certain risk factors such as a family history of colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.
Screening options at our clinic include:
- Stool-based tests, which can be ordered easily by your primary care physician and done at home
- Screening colonoscopy, which I can perform for eligible patients
A colonoscopy is the most comprehensive screening option, as it allows us not only to detect cancer early, but also to find and remove precancerous polyps during the procedure.
If you’re due for screening, unsure which option is right for you, or have been putting it off, we’d love to help you take the next step. Please reach out to your primary care physician or contact our clinic to discuss screening options and scheduling. Taking a few proactive steps now can make a life-saving difference.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for questions about a medical or health condition.
