Colon Cancer: What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You
By IM | Health Staff
Let’s talk about something most people avoid: your colon.
Colon cancer doesn’t care if you’re busy, feeling fine, or think you’re too young. It’s the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S.—but it’s also one of the most preventable. That’s right. A simple screening could save your life.
Early Detection = Major Protection
Here’s the deal: Colorectal cancer often starts as a polyp—small, noncancerous growths in the colon or rectum. When caught early, they can be removed before turning into cancer. But if you skip the screening? That’s when it gets dangerous.
Screening can reduce your risk of dying from colorectal cancer by up to 68%. That’s a massive difference for a simple test.
Colon Cancer Isn’t Just a “Later in Life” Problem Anymore
This is where it gets real. According to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, 1 in 5 new colorectal cancer diagnoses are in people under 55—a trend that’s been rising for the past two decades. That’s why the official recommendation is to start screening at age 45, even sooner if you have risk factors like a family history.
And here’s another wake-up call: younger adults are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages, when treatment is more complex and outcomes are less favorable.
Symptoms to Never Ignore
Even if you’re younger than 45, symptoms matter. Don’t brush off signs like:
- Rectal bleeding
- Blood in your stool
- Changes in bowel habits
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent cramping or fatigue
Even if you’re not due for routine screening, these are not normal. Let us know if something feels off.
Which Screening Is Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all. At our integrated care office, we help you choose the best option:
- Colonoscopy – The gold standard. Done every 10 years if results are normal.
- Stool tests (FIT or Cologuard) – Non-invasive and done more frequently.
- CT colonography – For certain patients who can’t do a colonoscopy.
We can walk you through each option based on your age, risk factors, and preferences.
Whole-Body, Whole-Team Care
Colon health isn’t just about one appointment. At our office, your care team—primary care, dietitian, physical therapist, and more—works together to support prevention, screening, and follow-up care.
From encouraging a high-fiber, plant-rich diet to managing risk factors like obesity and inactivity, we help you stack the odds in your favor.
Bottom Line
If you’re 45 or older, or have a family history of colon cancer, don’t wait. Screening saves lives. And if you’re under 45 and something feels off? Trust your gut and give us a call.
Need to get screened or talk about your risk?
Schedule an appointment with your provider today—we’ll help you stay one step ahead.
🔗 Learn more at Cancer Research Institute and the Colorectal Cancer Alliance.