Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: Prevention Starts in Primary Care

In this article, we highlight the importance of colorectal cancer screening, when to start, and the simple steps you can take through primary care to protect your health with a personalized prevention plan.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month! Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women in the United States, but when detected early, it is highly treatable and often preventable through routine screening.

In recent years, guidelines have changed to reflect an important trend: colorectal cancer is being diagnosed more frequently in younger adults. Because of this, screening is now recommended starting at age 45 for individuals at average risk. (American College of Gastroenterology)

What does screening look like?
In primary care, we play a key role in prevention and early detection. We can order non-invasive, at-home screening tests such as stool-based DNA tests (like Cologuard), which are convenient and effective options for many patients. (American Cancer Society)

We also coordinate referrals to gastroenterology (GI) specialists for colonoscopies, which remain the gold standard for screening because they can both detect and remove precancerous polyps in one procedure. (Boulder Community Health)

Why screening matters
Colorectal cancer can begin as small, precancerous polyps that may not cause symptoms right away. Screening allows for detection and removal these growths early before they turn into cancer. Alternatively, screening can detect cancer at a stage when treatment is most effective. (CDC)

Your risk is personal
While age 45 is the standard starting point, your individual risk may vary based on factors such as:

Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
Personal medical history (such as inflammatory bowel disease)
Symptoms like changes in bowel habits, bleeding, or unexplained weight loss

That’s why it’s important to have a conversation with your primary care provider about what screening plan is right for you.

Take the next step!
If you are 45 or older or if you have concerns based on your symptoms or family history, now is the time to act. Schedule an appointment with our office to discuss your personalized screening plan.