Colorectal Cancer: Preventable with Early Screening
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer accounts for over 52,000 deaths annually, yet up to 90% of cases can be prevented with early detection and screening. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends routine colorectal cancer screening for all adults aged 45 to 75.
The gold standard for screening is a colonoscopy, but there are less invasive options, such as stool-based tests. Your healthcare provider can recommend the best screening method for you based on individual risk factors.
Many cases of colorectal cancer are asymptomatic, making screening essential for early detection. However, if symptoms do occur, they often include changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Prevention goes beyond screening. Removing precancerous polyps early can stop cancer before it develops. Additionally, lifestyle choices play a significant role in risk reduction:
Eat a high-fiber diet
Limit processed and red meats
Engage in regular physical activity
Avoid alcohol and tobacco
Take charge of your health! Speak with your healthcare provider about screening options.
(The information provided is for educational purposes and should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any conditions. Consult with your health care provider for diagnosis and treatment of all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies.)