March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month

Each March thousands of patients, survivors, caregivers and healthcare providers work to raise awareness and encourage colon cancer screening.

Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men and women combined in the U.S.
 
Bad News:  One out of every three adults aged 50+ is not being screened for colon cancer. 
Good News:  Colon cancer is preventable or curable if caught early.
 
Most colon cancers develop first as polyps, which are abnormal growths inside the colon or rectum that may later become cancerous if not removed. 

Several screening methods are currently used to detect colon cancer but colonoscopy is still considered the "Gold Standard" because polyps can be biopsied or removed if found.

It is recommended that screening for colorectal cancer begin at age 50 for both women and men -- and continuing until age 75.   People with a family history or higher risk factors may require screening before the age of 50.  Talk with your healthcare provider about what is right for you.
 

Colorectal Cancer Screening Saves Lives ...  Put Yours Behind You!