Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States. The good news is that it is highly preventable. If you get regular screenings, growths known as polyps, can be detected and removed. Precancerous polyps are common and are found in about 2 out of 5 adults over age 50. Also, colorectal cancer that is found early can be easier to treat and has a high survival rate. This is why it is valuable to get regular screenings.
Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in your colon or rectum. These are large parts of your intestine. These areas help your body digest food. Along with getting rid of waste. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most colorectal cancers start as a small growth.
How Colorectal Cancer Develops
The CDC says that colorectal cancer almost always begins with precancerous polyps. Over time a polyp can slowly turn into cancer if not removed. Sometimes this can take between 10 – 15 years. This is why regular checkups and screening tests are so important.
It is also noted that age is one of the biggest risk factors. Many cases are diagnosed in adults over 50. Which makes it key to start getting screened at 45 years old. Other risk factors include having a family history of this cancer. As well as inflammatory bowel diseases. These are diseases like Crohn’s disease.
Types of Screening Tests
There are different ways to screen for colorectal cancer. Some can be done at home. While others require a short visit to your provider. Here are some of the different type of screenings there are:
- Stool Tests: A stool DNA test can check for tiny amounts of blood. Along with changes in DNA in your stool. These are simple tests that you can do at home. They are repeated every 1 to 3 years.
- Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is considered the most complete screening method according to the CDC. During this test a doctor uses a thin and flexible tube with a camera. The camera is used to look at your colon. During this procedure they can remove polyps. This helps prevent cancer.
Common Colon Cancer Symptoms
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer can cause many different symptoms. However, many of the symptoms are not noticeable at first. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Changes in bowel habits. For example, having diarrhea or constipation.
- Blood in your stool, or rectal bleeding.
- Feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty all the way after movement.
- Abdominal pain. This can come in the form of cramps or gas.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Weakness and fatigue.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms it is vital you reach out to your provider. Please do so immediately.
Visit Clinicas
At Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc., we believe that early detection saves lives. Our Primary Care Providers are dedicated to supporting your health and well‑being by offering screening options. Which are tailored to your needs. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
One of our Family Medicine Physician Assistants and our Director of Quality Improvement, Rene Rangel, PA‑C, emphasizes just how powerful screening can be. He shares,
“When a screening test finds precancerous colon polyps are removed, it’s a big relief knowing that colon cancer was prevented before it started.” This meaningful prevention is exactly why staying up to date with screenings matters.
If you are 45 or older, or have risk factors for colorectal cancer, now is the time to get screened. Call your Clinicas Health Center today. And schedule an appointment. That way you can discuss screening options with your provider.