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March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. There are lots of different methods for getting screened for colorectal cancer (see recent upload of various screening methods ). The best screening method is the one that gets done. Colonoscopy is the “gold standard” for detecting polyps, also known as growths of tissue, because these polyps can be removed during a colonoscopy. Removing these polyps before they turn into a cancer is the best way to prevent colorectal cancer. Screening historically has been recommended to start at age 50, but the American Cancer Society now recommends everyone should be screened beginning at age 45.
If you have a family history of colon cancer, screening should start even sooner. Talk with your healthcare provider today to see if screening is right for you, and what age is best for you to begin screening. If you are having any issues such as a change in your bowel habits, blood in your stool, abdominal pain, or weight loss without trying to lose weight no matter what your age, discuss these issues with your healthcare provider to see if screening is right for you. Don’t put it off another day. This screening could save your life!