45 is the new 50 – Doctors recommend earlier screening for colorectal cancer

Poinciana, Fla. – March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and if you or a loved one is 45 or older, now’s a good time to schedule a screening procedure. 

“Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the US, yet it’s now very survivable with screening and early diagnosis,” said Dr. Muhammad Anwer, gastroenterologist at HCA Florida Poinciana Hospital. “Depending on your individual health history, screening may be as simple as an at-home test.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control, colorectal cancer almost always develops from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Screening tests help identify precancerous polyps which can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screening tests can also find colorectal cancer early, when treatment works best.

There are several types of screenings: 

• Stool tests: these tests can be taken at home and will detect blood in a stool sample, or in the case of a FIT-DNA test, can also detect altered DNA in a stool sample. How often: Every 1-3 years
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy: A doctor uses a lighted tube to check for polyps or cancer inside the rectum and lower third of the colon. How often: Every 5 years
• Colonoscopy: A doctor uses a longer tube to check the rectum and entire colon, and can remove most polyps and some cancers during the procedure. How often: Every 10 years (people with an increased risk may need more frequent screenings).

HCA Healthcare’s Sarah Cannon Cancer Network recommends colorectal cancer screenings starting at age 45, but sometimes younger depending on personal or family history, so check with your doctor. 

Dr. Anwer notes there are additional steps you can take to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer, such as healthy eating and exercising. 

“Eating a diet low in animal fats and high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco are all valuable in minimizing your risk of developing colorectal cancer," said Dr. Anwer. “Being physically active and maintaining a healthy weight is also important, for avoiding colon cancer as well as all-around good health.” 

HCA Healthcare is improving systems of care. For more information about colorectal cancer screening, symptoms and treatment, please visit our Colorectal cancer page.