March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Recommended colorectal cancer screenings—start earlier than you might think. Many people with early stages of colorectal cancer experience no symptoms.  This disease is preventable, treatable, and beatable. Most colorectal cancer starts as precancerous polyps, meaning that doctors can stop colorectal cancer before it starts. 

Start screening at age 45 if you are at average risk. In 2021, the U.S. Preventive Task Force (USPSTF) lowered the recommended colorectal cancer screening age from 50 to 45.  If you are at increased risk, you may need to be screened sooner or more frequently – talk with your doctor as soon as you can.

According to the American Cancer Society One in three people in the US who should get tested for this type of cancer have never been screened.

Early detection of colorectal cancer can mean Better Outcomes: more treatment options and more effective treatment.

Learn more about colorectal cancer and talk to your medical provider about the best screening option for you.

Additional source

CDC, What should I know about colorectal cancer screening?