Colorectal cancer, one of the most common cancers, is highly curable if found early. One in 24 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in their lifetime. On Friday, March 6, Northern Light Health employees will wear blue to raise awareness and encourage people to get screened.
“Most people should begin screenings at age 45, however certain risk factors or symptoms may call for earlier screening,” explains general surgeon Daniel Kairys, MD, Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital. “I can’t stress enough how important screening is, especially now as we are seeing this cancer occur in younger adults. We encourage you to talk to your primary care provider to find out what type of screening is best for you.”
The most well-known screening methods are colonoscopies and at-home screening exams. While colonoscopies are considered the most effective way to screen for colorectal cancer, as they allow both the identification and removal of polyps in the same procedure, at-home screening exams offer advantages including no fasting, no prep and no anesthesia.
Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum and, in early stages, may not cause symptoms. When they do occur, symptoms might include abdominal discomfort, a change in bowel habits, rectal bleeding and unexplained weight loss. If caught early, this cancer is highly treatable, treatment plans vary depending on location and stage of the cancer.
March, Colorectal Awareness month, is a great time for people to speak with their primary care provider to find out if they are due for screening.