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March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

As March rolls in, it brings with it an essential reminder for everyone: the significance of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. With colorectal cancer being the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, awareness is not just vital; it’s a life-saving mission. Colorectal cancer is unique in that it is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer when detected early through regular screenings.

The Importance of Screening

Dr. Scott Flinn, a regional medical director with Blue Shield of California, emphasizes the urgency of getting screened: “Routine screenings can detect cancer while it is still treatable or even prevent it from developing in the first place.” The problem is that colorectal cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms, and by the time symptoms do appear, the situation may have already escalated.

Who Is at Risk?

While colorectal cancer can potentially affect anyone, certain factors can increase susceptibility. Age is a critical risk factor, as the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer rises noticeably after reaching 45 years. Additionally, those with a family history of the condition or pre-existing health issues like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)—which includes conditions such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis—are also advised to start screening sooner. Lifestyle choices profoundly affect risk levels as well. Diets rich in processed meats and low in fruits and vegetables, unhealthy habits like smoking or excessive alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyles, and obesity can all elevate the risk.

Signs to Watch For

Awareness doesn’t stop at risk factors; it’s also crucial to recognize warning signs. Symptoms that might suggest colorectal cancer include:

• - Changes in bowel habits (persistent diarrhea or constipation)
• - Blood in or on the stool
• - Unexplained weight loss
• - Ongoing abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating
• - The sensation that your bowel isn’t fully emptying
• - Persistent fatigue and weakness

Monitoring these signs and consulting a healthcare provider promptly can make a significant difference.

Methods of Screening

Because colorectal cancer can often remain undetected for years, routine screenings are imperative. The survival rate is vastly improved if the cancer is caught early; it’s about 88% for early detection, compared to a mere 16% if the cancer has already spread. Moreover, regular screenings can also unearth precancerous polyps, which can be eradicated before they develop into cancer.

Primary Screening Options Include:

1. Colonoscopy: A thorough examination procedure that involves inserting a thin tube with a camera into the colon to identify and possibly remove polyps. If results are normal, this procedure need only occur every ten years.
2. Stool-Based Tests: These at-home assessments can detect early-stage cancer by identifying blood traces or specific DNA markers. They are simple to use and typically require repeating only every one to three years, depending on the test type.
3. Blood Tests: Although still under investigation for lower-risk individuals, advancements in blood tests could lead to new screening opportunities in the future.

“It’s crucial to complete the screening you choose,” Dr. Flinn adds. “If you've delayed your screening, don't put it off any longer—schedule it now. Early detection has the power to save your life.”

Resources for Blue Shield Members

Blue Shield of California encourages its members to utilize available resources, including:

• - Finding doctors and services through the member website.
• - Understanding coverage options surrounding preventive care and screenings.

About Blue Shield of California

Blue Shield of California is dedicated to offering a sustainable and affordable healthcare system. As a non-profit member of the Blue Shield Association, it serves nearly 6 million members with a wide array of healthcare plans. The organization also emphasizes community welfare, contributing over $60 million to designated foundations aimed at improving California communities in the last three years.

For further inquiries or to learn more about Blue Shield of California, check their news site or follow them on professional networking platforms. Take the pledge this month to prioritize your health and encourage your loved ones to get screened.