Ask the Expert: Take Charge: Get Screened for Colorectal Cancer

Over the course of a lifetime, about 1 in 24 men and 1 in 26 women will develop colorectal cancer (CRC). It remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States. The rising incidence of early-onset CRC led the American Cancer Society and the United States Preventive Service Task Force to set forth the recommendation to begin screening individuals who are at average risk at age 45.

Patients who are at increased risk for CRC include the following: those with a first-degree relative who was diagnosed with CRC, or those with a first-degree relative with a history of advanced colon polyps. These individuals should start a screening program at the age of 40 or 10 years before the age of the relative’s diagnosis, whichever is earlier.

In early stages, CRC often does not cause any symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms can include bloody stools, abdominal pain, a change in bowel habits (such as new constipation or diarrhea), fatigue, and unintentional weight loss.

A preferred method of screening for CRC is a colonoscopy, because it is both diagnostic and preventative. During a colonoscopy, the doctor looks for polyps. Polyps are small growths from the wall of the colon that can evolve into colon cancer if left untreated. At the time of the colonoscopy, the polyps are removed with one of several instruments. Afterward, the recommendation on when to repeat the colonoscopy is determined by the number and size of polyps found on the first examination.

As March—Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month—comes to a close, I want to encourage our community to take charge of their health by getting screened, not just this month, but year-round. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned earlier, don’t wait—talk to your doctor and get screened.

About Dr. Juan Sanchez

Sanchez, a valley native who is a gastroenterologist and advanced endoscopy specialist, focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of digestive system conditions using the latest minimally invasive techniques. He is dedicated to patient education and empowering individuals to take proactive steps in managing their digestive health.

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