Early Detection Saves Lives…

By Yvette Williams, Regional Volunteer Manager

In February 2000, President Bill Clinton designated March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Observed annually, we join other healthcare groups and entities in raising awareness about the disease and encouraging regular screening.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common form of cancer in men and women in the United States and the second deadliest cancer. PREVENTION IS KEY! Colorectal cancer can be prevented with regular screening and is highly treatable when caught early and treated, so adults are encouraged to begin annual screening at the age of 45, or earlier if there is a family history of colorectal cancer. Especially in its early stages, the disease may not show any signs so it is always wise so share changes in bowel habits including symptoms like hemorrhoids, diarrhea, infection, or irritable bowel syndrome, with your healthcare professional, as they could be signs of colorectal cancer.

According to the Colorectal Cancer Coalition, missed or delayed screening gives colorectal cancer a chance to grow and become more dangerous long before symptoms appear, and one in 24 people will be diagnosed with the disease in their lifetime. You don’t have to be “the one.”

If you are 45 years or older, or have a family history of colorectal cancer, and have not been screened for colorectal cancer, make your health a priority. Make an appointment with your healthcare professional to get screened today. Don’t wait!

To learn more about colorectal cancer, visit https://colorectalcancer.org/