March is Colorectal Cancer Education & Awareness Month

March is Colorectal Cancer Education & Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on one of the most preventable, yet increasingly diagnosed cancers in the United States. Colorectal cancer begins in the colon or rectum and is often highly treatable when found early. Screening can help in identifying and removing precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer. 

 

Historically considered a disease affecting adults over 50, colorectal cancer is now rising in younger populations. A recent report highlighted by ABC News found:

This shift prompted the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force to lower the recommended screening age from 50 to 45 for average-risk adults. Despite this change, screening participation remains low in this younger age group, leaving many cancers undetected until later stages.

 

“Colorectal cancer is one of the few cancers where we can intervene before cancer even develops,” says Dr. Rishi Agarwal, Medical Oncologist at Arizona Center for Cancer Care. “When we detect and remove precancerous polyps during a colonoscopy, we are actively preventing cancer. That is incredibly powerful.”

 

Colorectal cancer often does not cause symptoms in its earliest stages. That means waiting for symptoms can mean waiting too long.

Screening options include:

Each option has its place, and your healthcare provider can help determine what’s appropriate based on your personal and family history.

 

Even with screening, it’s important to recognize warning signs:

 

“These symptoms are sometimes dismissed, especially in younger adults,” explains Dr. Stephanie Lindauer, Medical Oncologist and Hematologist at Arizona Center for Cancer Care. “We’re seeing more patients diagnosed in their 40s. If something feels off, advocate for yourself. Early detection dramatically improves outcomes.”

 

While researchers are still studying why rates are rising among younger adults, several factors may contribute:

 

Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when caught early and often preventable with timely screening. Dr. Lindauer emphasizes, “We have the tools to reduce deaths from colorectal cancer. The key is awareness followed by action. If you are 45 or older, talk to your doctor about screening. If you have symptoms, don’t wait.”

 

 

At Arizona Center for Cancer Care, we are committed to early detection, advanced treatment, and compassionate care at every stage of the cancer journey. For more information about this type of cancer, visit https://www.arizonaccc.com/service/colon.

 

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