March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the United States and the second leading cause of death from cancer. But, it is also one of the most PREVENTABLE and treatable forms of cancer when found early.

Colorectal cancer affects all racial and ethnic groups and is most often found in people ages 50 and older, although it can affect people younger than 50. Smoking is also thought to be a contributing factor as well as a family history. Since there are often no signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer, it’s very important to get screened.

There are many different kinds of screening tests for colon cancer from a blood test to a colonoscopy. Talk to your provider at Women’s Health Center or your PrimaryCare doctor to determine the best test for you. For more information go to https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/resources/features/colorectalawareness/