Daily Dose: Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of early detection. Health experts now recommend that colon cancer screenings begin at age 45 to catch potential issues early.

The gold standard for screening is the colonoscopy, which detects 95% of colon cancers and can remove precancerous polyps. Those with a family history of colon cancer, including parents, grandparents, or siblings, should prioritize this method for the most accurate results. For individuals at average risk, a clear colonoscopy means they can wait 10 years before the next screening, while those at higher risk may need to repeat the test every three to five years.

Alternatively, the Cologuard test offers a non-invasive option by detecting abnormal DNA in stool samples. It identifies 93% of colon cancers and does not require bowel preparation, making it a convenient choice. Cologuard screenings should be repeated every three years. Another option is the FIT test, which detects blood in the stool. Costing as little as $20, this test is widely accessible and can be purchased online.

Regular screening saves lives by detecting colon cancer early when treatment is most effective.