Raising awareness about colorectal cancer

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to educate our community about colorectal cancer (CRC), highlight the importance of prevention and screening, and show support for those affected.

Why Awareness Matters

According to the American Cancer Society, while overall cancer death rates in people under 50 have declined by 44% since 1990, colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in individuals under age 50. Approximately 10% of CRC cases occur in people younger than 50, underscoring a concerning trend. “These numbers reinforce why we’re seeing colorectal cancer more often in younger adults,” says Richard E. Nickowitz, MD, FACP, gastroenterologist. “Screening at the right time—before symptoms appear—can truly save lives.”

A Preventable Cancer

Colorectal cancer usually begins as adenomatous polyps—benign growths in the colon that can become cancerous over time. Detecting and removing these polyps early can prevent cancer before it starts.

That’s why both the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and the American Cancer Society recommend that adults at average risk begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45. If no precancerous polyps are found and symptoms don’t develop, screening is typically repeated every 10 years.

Despite these recommendations, only about 20% of adults ages 45–49 are currently up to date with screening.

Screening Options

Colonoscopy remains the most effective screening test, as it detects both colorectal cancer and precancerous polyps. For individuals who prefer non-invasive options, other tests, such as stool and blood-based tests are available.

Dr. Nickowitz explains, “These tests can be helpful for cancer detection, but colonoscopy is still the best tool we have for finding and removing precancerous polyps before cancer develops.”

Huntington Hospital’s AI-assisted colonoscopy helps gastroenterologists identify polyps in real time and improves detection accuracy. This advancement means more precancerous polyps are being found and removed—helping reduce future colorectal cancer risk.

Your health matters

Colorectal cancer is largely preventable—and screening saves lives. If you are 45 or older, have symptoms, or have a family history or risk factors, talk with your doctor—or your gastroenterologist—about screening options.

To learn more about screening and care, go to: https://www.huntingtonhealth.org/our-services/cancer-treatment/screening-diagnosis/