Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second deadliest cancer in the U.S., claiming over 50,000 lives each year. Yet, it is also one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early. With routine screenings starting at age 45, we have the power to detect and remove precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer. This March, National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, The Oncology Institute is dedicated to raising awareness about CRC prevention, screening, and early detection to help save lives.
Know the Risks & Symptoms
Colorectal cancer develops silently in its early stages, often without noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they may include blood in the stool, persistent changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or abdominal pain. While CRC is most commonly diagnosed after age 50, rates of young-onset colorectal cancer are rising. Additionally, certain communities, including American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Black populations, face disproportionately higher CRC incidence and mortality rates. Understanding your risk and recognizing symptoms early is essential in the fight against this disease.
Screening Saves Lives
The key to preventing CRC is routine screening, which should begin at age 45 for individuals at average risk. Those with family history, inflammatory bowel diseases, or genetic syndromes may need to start screening earlier. There are multiple screening options available, including colonoscopy, stool-based tests (FIT, stool-DNA), and at-home testing kits. If a test result is abnormal, a follow-up colonoscopy is necessary to examine and remove any polyps. When detected early, colorectal cancer has a 91% survival rate, making screening one of the most powerful tools for prevention.
At The Oncology Institute, we are committed to providing education, resources, and personalized care to help patients understand their risks, get screened, and take proactive steps toward prevention. This March, we encourage you to talk to your doctor, schedule a screening, and spread awareness.
Your health is in your hands—don’t wait for symptoms.
Get screened.
