March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month
Let’s Normalize Prevention!
You're here because someone who cares about you wanted you to know that colon cancer screening starts at 45 and can save your life.
Screening for colon cancer is effective for both early detection and for prevention
80%
More than 80% of colorectal cancers arise from adenomatous polyps
2+
Diagnosis of colorectal cancer through screening tends to occur 2–3 years before diagnosis with symptoms
60%
Screening has the potential to reduce colorectal cancer deaths by 60%
Don't ignore symptoms
It’s important to get screened regularly because colon cancer doesn’t always cause symptoms. Call us if you have any of these symptoms:
- Change in bowel habits.
- Blood in or on your stool (bowel movement).
- Diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty all the way.
- Cramping, abdominal pain or bloating that doesn’t go away.
- Unexplained weight loss.
Reduce your risk
Be proactive about your GI health and reduce the risk of colon cancer. Be sure to:
- Eat a healthy diet to help maintain and take control of your weight.
- Stay active and get regular exercise.
- Avoid tobacco and alcohol.
- Most importantly, regular screening can detect early signs of colon cancer and should start at age 45.
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