Shawn Roberts, MD, FACS
March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of early detection and preventative care. Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, but it is also highly treatable when caught in its early stages. Regular screenings and healthy lifestyle choices play a critical role in reducing the risk and improving outcomes.
Regular screenings
Colon cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making routine screening essential. A common and highly effective screening method is a colonoscopy, which allows doctors to detect and remove precancerous polyps before they become cancerous.
“Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers,” explains Dr. Shawn Roberts, general surgeon at Riverwood Healthcare Center. “Many colorectal cancers begin as small, slow-growing polyps that often cause no symptoms. With regular screenings, we can detect and remove these polyps before they have the chance to become cancerous. Even if cancer is found, early detection dramatically improves treatment success and survival rates. That’s why it’s so important to follow screening guidelines. Prevention and early diagnosis can save lives.”
Risk factors
Several factors can increase the risk of developing colon cancer, including:
- Age: The risk of colon cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in individuals over 50.
- Family history: Those with a parent, sibling, or child who has had colon cancer may have a higher risk.
- Lifestyle factors: A diet high in red or processed meats, low physical activity, obesity, smoking, and heavy alcohol use can contribute to an increased risk.
Prevention steps
While some risk factors, like age and family history, cannot be changed, making healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk of colon cancer:
- Healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables while limiting red and processed meats can support colon health.
- Regular exercise: Staying active helps maintain a healthy weight and lowers the risk of colon cancer.
- Routine screenings: Regular checkups and screenings, such as colonoscopies, are key to early detection and prevention.
Schedule your screening
Early detection saves lives. If you are 45 or older or have a family history of colon cancer, talk to your healthcare provider about scheduling a screening. Prioritizing your health today can help prevent colon cancer in the future. To schedule an appointment with your primary care provider, go to www.riverwoodhealthcare.org or call 218-927-2157.