March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. If you’re over the age of 45, now is a great time to ask your primary care provider about a colonoscopy.

Earlier onset is on the rise

According to an American Cancer Society study, the number of people under age 55 diagnosed with colorectal cancer has nearly doubled since 1995 despite this age group shrinking in the overall population. The cause of this rise is undetermined, but could be due to numerous genetic and/or environmental factors. That’s why it’s important not to delay screening.

• Adults over the age of 45 should ask their primary care provider about colorectal cancer screening. A colonoscopy is recommended once every 10 years beginning at age 45.
• Adults under the age of 45 with an increased risk of colorectal cancer should also talk to their provider about getting screened.
• Adults of any age who are experiencing a change in bowel habits, blood in the stool, or abdominal pain that does not go away should talk to their provider about getting screened. 

Screening saves lives

Many cases of colorectal cancer are preventable. Routine screening by colonoscopy can detect cancer in its early stages, when treatment is more likely to be successful. Any precancerous polyps discovered during a colonoscopy can be removed during the procedure, so they don’t develop into cancer later on.

A colonoscopy is a short, out-patient procedure. Most patients are at home resting within a matter of hours.

CMH’s current appointment wait time is one week for colonoscopies. Not a CMH patient, but want to take advantage of a short wait time? Ask your primary care provider about a referral to CMH. 

Questions about scheduling a colonoscopy at CMH? Call 218-499-6793.