By Robin Stoloff
Health & Wellness
“I am so excited to get my colonoscopy today!” said no one, ever. It is not the most pleasant experience, but you know what’s worse? Colorectal cancer. Talking about it might feel a little uncomfortable, but ignoring it is much riskier.
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and while this topic may not be the most glamorous, it is critically important.
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, yet it remains one of the most preventable cancers. It’s time to put aside any awkwardness and have a serious conversation about our health. Think of this as a friendly public service announcement—no dramatic music, just facts.
Everyone is at risk
Colorectal cancer affects the colon and rectum and is a serious threat. But the good news? It’s also one of the most preventable cancers. Early detection can make all the difference.
You may be thinking, “I feel fine, I’m too young, I eat my vegetables occasionally…” And that’s great. But the reality is that colorectal cancer doesn’t discriminate. This disease can affect individuals of all backgrounds, and as we age, our chance of getting colorectal cancer increases.
We can reduce our risks by staying active, eating a healthy fiber-rich diet and avoiding harmful habits such as smoking and excessive drinking, but sometimes, cancer develops regardless of lifestyle choices. That’s why awareness and early detection are key.
Warning signs
to watch for
Pay attention to changes in your bowel habits – persistent diarrhea or constipation, blood in your stool (bright red or dark), or unusually narrow stools. Unexplained weight loss, ongoing abdominal pain, or feeling like you haven’t fully emptied your bowels could also be warning signs. While these symptoms can be linked to other, less serious conditions, it’s essential to consult your doctor if you experience them.
Listen to your body. There is no need for embarrassment – healthcare professionals have heard it all, and their priority is your well-being.
The power of screening
The most powerful tool against colorectal cancer is screening. There are several screening methods available, depending on your age, risk factors and personal preference.
The gold standard is a colonoscopy, a procedure performed under sedation in which a doctor examines the colon and rectum using a flexible tube with a camera, allowing for the removal of any polyps if found. Current guidelines recommend starting regular screening at 45, but those with a family history or higher risk factors may need to start earlier. Talk to your doctor about your individual needs.
Other options include stool tests, like FIT and Cologuard, which can be done at home. They require collecting a small stool sample and sending it to a lab for analysis.
While these tests are easy to use and do not require bowel preparation or sedation, they have limitations. Stool tests must be repeated more frequently, usually every one to three years and they may not detect all polyps or early-stage cancers. They also might result in false negatives or positives.
Reducing your risk
Beyond screening, there are everyday steps you can take to lower your risk. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains is beneficial, while reducing the consumption of red and processed meat can help minimize risk. Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight also contribute to overall well-being. Additionally, smoking is a significant risk factor, so if you smoke, make every effort to quit.
Breaking the silence
This March, we need to break the silence surrounding colorectal cancer. Talk to your family and friends about it. Encourage loved ones to get screened. It may not be the most comfortable conversation, but it is one that could save lives.
If you are due for a screening, schedule it. Let’s make Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month a time for action, and a commitment to keeping ourselves and our loved ones healthy for years to come.
Robin is a former television reporter for NBC News 40. She currently hosts a podcast and radio program called Living Well with Robin Stoloff. It airs Sundays at 10 AM on Lite 96.9. You can email Robin at livingwellwithrobin@gmail.com
