Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: Dr. Elissa Falconer on Symptoms, Screening, and Prevention

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a timely reminder of the importance of prevention, early detection, and regular screening. Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting both men and women, but it is also one of the most treatable when found early.

At Premier Surgical Associates in Knoxville, Elissa A. Falconer, MD, provides specialized care for patients with colon and rectal conditions, including colorectal cancer. As a Colon and Rectal Surgeon at Fort Sanders Regional, she treats both cancerous and benign diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus, with a strong focus on minimally invasive surgical techniques.

Why Colorectal Cancer Awareness Matters

One of the most concerning trends in recent years is the rise in colorectal cancer diagnoses among adults under age 50. While researchers are still working to better understand the reasons behind this increase, it is clear that colorectal cancer can affect adults earlier than many people expect.

That is why awareness is so important. Understanding risk factors, recognizing symptoms, and staying current with screening recommendations can help patients take action sooner and potentially improve outcomes.

Understanding Risk Factors

Like many diseases, colorectal cancer is influenced by a combination of factors. Some risk factors cannot be changed, such as age, genetics, and family history. Others are more closely tied to lifestyle and overall health.

Modifiable risk factors may include:

• Physical inactivity
• Obesity
• Diets high in processed foods
• High consumption of red meat
• Diets high in sugar and fat

Researchers are also continuing to study how environmental influences and changes in the gut microbiome may contribute to colorectal cancer risk. While not every case can be prevented, healthy lifestyle choices may help reduce risk over time.

The Importance of Knowing Your Family History

Family history can play an important role in colorectal cancer risk. For some patients, a history of colon polyps, colorectal cancer, or certain gastrointestinal conditions in close relatives may mean screening should begin earlier or occur more frequently.

Having open conversations with family members about medical history can provide valuable information for both patients and their healthcare providers. Knowing this history can help guide decisions about when screening should begin and what type of follow-up may be needed.

Screening Should Start at Age 45

For adults at average risk, colorectal cancer screening now begins at age 45. This recommendation reflects growing awareness that colorectal cancer is being diagnosed earlier and that timely screening can save lives.

A colonoscopy remains one of the most effective screening tools because it allows physicians to examine the colon for polyps or other abnormalities. In many cases, polyps can be identified and removed before they become cancerous. This means screening does not just detect cancer early — it can help prevent it.

Symptoms You Should Not Ignore

Colorectal cancer may not cause symptoms in its earliest stages, which is one reason screening is so important. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

• Changes in bowel habits, such as new constipation or diarrhea
• Blood in the stool
• Bright red rectal bleeding
• Black, tarry stools
• Abdominal pain
• Unexplained weight loss

These symptoms do not always indicate colorectal cancer, but they should always be evaluated by a medical professional.

Take the Next Step

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is a good time to take a proactive approach to your health. Knowing your family history, reducing modifiable risk factors, recognizing warning signs, and staying up to date on screening can all make a meaningful difference.

For adults age 45 and older — or for younger individuals with symptoms or increased risk — now is the time to talk with a doctor about colorectal cancer screening.

Click here for more information about Premier Surgical’s colon and rectal surgery services.