Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

ZANESVILLE, OH – March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a reminder that early screenings can save lives.

Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths, but it’s also highly treatable when caught early. Health experts now recommend adults begin routine screenings at age 45, even if they have no symptoms.

“Colon cancer is on the rise in younger populations. The benefit of doing the colonoscopy greatly outweighs the risk in terms of being able to prevent colon cancer. If there are polyps, then that gives us a specific timeline that we need to come back sooner than 10 years to do another colonoscopy versus if there’s no polyps, then we can come back in 10 years.” Alexandra Davies, D.O. from Genesis HealthCare System, Gastroenterology, said.

Many people avoid screenings due to fear or discomfort, but doctors stress that modern testing options are quick, effective, and often lifesaving. Knowing your family history and talking with your provider can help determine when to begin screening.

“There are certain individuals who might need colonoscopies sooner than 45. Like if there’s a strong family history of colon cancer in first degree relatives or even if a first degree relative has a high-risk polyp. So, it’s good to talk with any parents or siblings who’s had a colonoscopy.” Dr. Davies said.

Experts encourage adults to talk to their healthcare provider about screening options and not wait until symptoms begin.