Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: Screening & Prevention Are Key
March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, an important reminder that colorectal cancer is often preventable and highly treatable when caught early. At Premier Surgical Associates in Knoxville, Cleveland, and Johnson City, Tennessee, we’re committed to helping patients understand their risk, recognize warning signs, and take action with recommended screenings.
Understanding the impact of colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer (colon and rectal cancer) remains one of the most common cancers affecting both men and women in the United States. Recent CDC data reports 147,931 new colorectal cancer cases in 2022, and 53,779 deaths in 2023. Even with those sobering numbers, there’s real hope: there are more than 1.5 million colorectal cancer survivors in the U.S., showing how powerful early detection and effective treatment can be.
Why early detection and screening matter
The most important factor in improving outcomes is early diagnosis. Many colorectal cancers start as polyps (small growths in the colon or rectum) that can be found and removed before they turn into cancer.
That’s why national guidelines emphasize screening. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults at average risk begin regular colorectal cancer screening at age 45. People with a family history of colorectal cancer, certain inherited conditions, or inflammatory bowel disease may need to start earlier.
Signs and symptoms to know
Screening is essential because colorectal cancer may have no symptoms at all, especially in early stages. Still, don’t ignore changes that persist, such as:
- Ongoing constipation or diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
- Blood in the stool
- Changes in bowel habits
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Unexplained weight loss
If you notice any of these symptoms, talk with a healthcare provider promptly.
Colorectal cancer screening options
There are several effective screening methods. Your provider can recommend the best fit based on your age, personal history, and risk factors:
- Colonoscopy: Often considered the gold standard because it can detect and remove polyps during the same procedure.
- FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test): A non-invasive stool test, typically done yearly, that checks for hidden blood.
- Stool DNA test: Looks for hidden blood and certain DNA changes.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Examines the lower portion of the colon.
Prevention strategies that lower risk
In addition to screening, everyday choices can help reduce risk. Key prevention steps include maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, eating more fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains), limiting red and processed meats, avoiding tobacco, and moderating alcohol.
Treatment options if cancer is found
Treatment depends on the stage and individual factors. Options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, used alone or in combination. When colorectal cancer is found early, many polyps and small cancers can be removed during a colonoscopy using techniques like polypectomy or local excision.
Take action this March
If you’re 45 or older and haven’t been screened, make this the month you schedule it. If you’re younger with risk factors or concerns, start the conversation now.
Click here for more information about Premier Surgical’s colon and rectal surgery services.