MARCH MARKS Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a crucial time to highlight the importance of colon health and early screening. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), colorectal cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, with 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women affected during their lifetime. Fortunately, this disease is among the most preventable, with proper lifestyle changes and regular screenings reducing the risk significantly.
THE IMPORTANCE OF COLON HEALTH
“Most of us don’t think about our colon daily, yet it plays a vital role in overall health,” says Rassa Shahidzadeh, M.D., a gastroenterologist on the medical staff Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Plano. The colon reabsorbs water, processes waste and supports trillions of beneficial bacteria essential for immune function, nutrient absorption and even mood regulation. However, colon health often goes unnoticed until issues arise, underscoring the need for awareness and preventive care.
SCREENING: A LIFESAVING MEASURE
Screening remains the cornerstone of colorectal cancer prevention. "Colon cancer screening is one of the most successful interventions to alter a person's health trajectory," says Joseph Kim, M.D., a gastroenterologist on the medical staff at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – McKinney. Colon cancer often begins as polyps, which can be detected, located and removed during screenings, preventing them from becoming cancerous.
Two primary screening methods are available: colonoscopy and at-home tests. Colonoscopy allows doctors to detect and remove polyps during the same procedure. “While it requires a day off work and bowel preparation, it’s the most effective way to prevent colon cancer,” says Dr. Kim. In contrast, at-home tests are convenient but may lead to false positives or negatives, necessitating follow-up colonoscopies.
Guidelines recommend beginning regular screening at age 45, earlier if there is a family history of colorectal cancer or related conditions. “Preparation is often the hardest part, but it’s essential for detecting even the smallest polyps,” says Rama Behara, D.O. a gastroenterologist on the medical staff at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Centennial.
Earlier stages can be asymptomatic, but common warning signs include blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits and unintentional weight loss. According to Dr. Behara, “These symptoms, particularly in younger patients, are often ignored.”
LIFESTYLE CHANGES FOR A HEALTHY COLON
“While genetics and aging are significant factors in the risk of developing colon cancer, lifestyle choices play a crucial role in maintaining colon health,” says Dr. Shahidzadeh. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and limiting alcohol and red meat intake are essential. Following a Mediterranean diet, rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and probiotics, can enhance gut health and lower cancer risk.
In addition, staying physically active can improve bowel movements, reduce inflammation and alter hormone balance within the body. According to a study published by the National Library of Medicine, exercise can potentially reduce the risk of colon cancer by up to 24% for the most active individuals compared to the least active.
Colorectal cancer is preventable with proper screening and lifestyle changes. If you experience unusual symptoms or have a family history of colorectal issues, consult your physician.
Legal Disclaimer: Physicians provide clinical services as members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Scott & White Health’s subsidiary, community, or affiliated medical centers and do not provide clinical services as employees or agents of those medical centers or Baylor Scott & White Health.
