March is nationally recognized as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and is an important time to talk openly about colorectal cancer and how screening can make a life-saving difference.
One of Lakes Regional Healthcare’s goals is to provide trusted health information and encourage those in the Iowa Great Lakes region to get the preventive care they need. Colorectal cancer is a serious disease, but there are clear, evidence-based steps people can take to reduce their risk and detect cancer early, when treatments are most effective.
Colorectal cancer refers to cancer that begins in the colon or the rectum, which are parts of the large intestine. It often starts as a small growth called a polyp that can be present for years without symptoms. Over time, some polyps can develop into cancer. Screening can often find polyps before they become cancerous and detect cancer at an early stage. Common symptoms may include:
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Persistent change in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stool)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Abdominal discomfort, pain, or cramping
- Weakness or fatigue
It’s important to remember that many of these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than cancer, but they still warrant a conversation with your provider.
In Iowa, cancer overall has been highlighted in recent public health reports as a continuing concern. Statewide data show that Iowa has had one of the higher overall cancer rates in the country, with more new cancer cases reported than in most other states. This has led to ongoing efforts by public health organizations to better understand the causes and improve prevention strategies.
When specifically looking at colorectal cancer, Iowa’s rates have generally been comparable to, and at times slightly higher than, national averages. In Dickinson County, colorectal cancer is the fifth most common cancer diagnosis. The good news is that screening has contributed to a decline in new cases among adults over age 50 in recent decades. At the same time, health data show an increase in diagnoses among adults under age 50, which is one reason screening guidelines were lowered to begin at age 45 for those at average risk.
Current recommendations from national health organizations suggest adults at average risk begin regular colorectal cancer screening at age 45. People with higher risk, such as those with a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or certain genetic conditions, should talk with their provider about starting screenings earlier.
Screening tests include:
- Colonoscopy: A procedure done in the Surgery Department that examines the entire colon and rectum and can remove polyps during the same visit.
- Stool-based tests: Take-home tests that look for hidden blood or abnormal DNA in the stool. Cologuard is one example and is typically done every three years for people at average risk. If a stool test is positive, a follow-up colonoscopy is needed.
“Colorectal cancer often develops slowly over time, usually beginning as a polyp in the colon or rectum. Screening allows us to identify these growths before they become cancerous and to detect cancer at an earlier stage, when treatment options are more effective,” explained Benjamin Branigan, MD, a surgeon with Northwest Iowa Surgeons. “Colonoscopy remains the most comprehensive screening tool because it allows for both visualization of the colon and removal of polyps during the same procedure.”
Dr. Branigan added that even with recommended screening, some people become symptomatic between screenings. “It’s important not to ignore warning signs. If you notice symptoms, call your provider rather than waiting for your next scheduled visit,” he said. “Early detection improves outcomes. When colorectal cancer is found at an early stage, treatment options are more successful, and recovery prospects are better. Regular screening and early diagnosis save lives.”
If you are 45 or older and have not been screened, or if you are experiencing symptoms that concern you, now is a good time to have a conversation with your provider. Screening recommendations are not one size fits all. Your age, personal health history, and family history all play a role. A brief discussion can help you understand your options and decide on the next right step.
