March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and at Horizon Family Medical Group, we want to remind you of one simple truth: early detection saves lives. Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers—but only if it’s caught early. That’s why staying up to date with your screenings is so important.
Why Screenings Matter
Colorectal cancer often develops without any symptoms in its early stages. By the time warning signs like persistent stomach pain, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss appear, the cancer may already be advanced. That’s why regular screenings are crucial—they can detect precancerous polyps before they become cancerous or catch cancer in its early, most treatable stages.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends starting routine colorectal cancer screening at age 45 for most people. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors, your doctor may recommend starting even earlier.
Screening Options
There are several ways to get screened. Talk with your doctor to determine the best option for you:
- Colonoscopy – The gold standard for detecting and removing precancerous polyps.
- FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) – A simple, at-home stool test that checks for hidden blood.
- Cologuard® – An at-home test that detects both blood and DNA changes in stool.
Prevention Starts with You
In addition to screening, lifestyle choices can play a big role in reducing your risk of colorectal cancer. Healthy habits like eating a high-fiber diet, staying active, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol intake can help keep your colon healthy.
Don’t Put It Off—Schedule Your Screening Today
We get it—no one looks forward to a colonoscopy or any kind of screening. But taking care of your health today can prevent bigger problems tomorrow. If you’re due for a screening, don’t wait—schedule your appointment now.
At Horizon Family Medical Group, we’re here to support your health every step of the way. If you have questions about screening or risk factors, give us a call.