Throughout March, Methodist Hospital, located on Floyd Curl Drive, will illuminate cobalt blue in honor of the American Cancer Society initiative to raise community colorectal cancer awareness.
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States for both men and women, however, it is one of the only cancer types that is preventable. Regular screening can find colorectal cancer when it is small, hasn’t spread, and might be easier to treat.
Dr. Maria Martinez-Ugarter, colorectal surgeon with Methodist Hospital, says colorectal cancer prevention, and overall healthy colons, begins with a healthy diet enriched with fruits, vegetables, and fiber; daily water consumption of two to four liters per day; and exercise.
“Fortunately, colorectal cancer can be prevented and you can catch it as early as finding polyps and abnormal growths before they become cancerous. It’s the disease that leads to cancerous disease. Not only can you detect it early, but prevent it from the beginning,” said Dr. Martinez.
According to the American Cancer Society, people at average risk of colorectal cancer should start screening at the age of 45 and older by undergoing regular screening with either a high-sensitivity stool-based test or a structural (visual) exam, based on personal preferences and test availability. People who think or know they are at higher risk for colorectal cancer - personal or family history of colon cancer and polyps, have inflammatory bowel disease or history of radiation to the abdomen -should start screening before the age of 45 and talk to their health care provider.
Know your risk for colorectal cancer! Learn more about screening options and take an online health risk assessment at sahealth.com/specialties/colorectal-cancer.