The Importance Of Colorectal Cancer Awareness and Screening

Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer when caught early. Yet many people delay screening or aren’t aware of the latest recommendations. With colorectal cancer on the rise in young people, it is increasingly important to understand your risk, recognize warning signs, and stay up to date with colorectal cancer screening guidelines. At The Crane Center, we’re committed to helping patients take a proactive approach to their health through education, prevention, and early detection.

What Is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer refers to cancer that begins in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine. Most cases start as small, noncancerous growths called polyps. Over time, some of these polyps can develop into cancer if not detected and removed early. Because this cancer often develops slowly and may not cause symptoms at first, routine screening plays a critical role in catching it before it progresses.

How Common Is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and women in the United States (excluding skin cancers). It’s also the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths; but, importantly, it’s highly preventable with proper screening. In recent years, rates have been increasing among younger adults, which has led to updated screening guidelines and a stronger push for early awareness.

Current Colon Cancer Screening Guidelines

Screening recommendations have evolved to reflect rising cases in younger populations (under age 50). In fact, recent studies have found that colorectal cancer cases in younger adults have doubled since the 1990s. Because of this alarming statistic, most major health organizations now recommend:

• Starting screening at age 45 for average-risk adults
• Continuing regular screening through age 75
• Individualized screening decisions for adults aged 76-85
• Earlier and more frequent screening for those at higher risk

If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or certain medical conditions, your provider may recommend beginning screening even earlier.

Screening Options: Colonoscopies, Stool Tests, and More

There are several effective options for colorectal cancer screening, which gives many patients more flexibility choose what works best for their comfort and lifestyle:

Colonoscopy

This is considered the gold standard for colorectal screening. During this procedure, a camera is entered into the rectum which allows direct visualization of the colon. If detected, polyps can be removed during the procedure. A colonoscopy is typically repeated every 10 years if results are normal.

Stool-Based Tests

While colonoscopy remains the most accurate means of screening for colorectal cancer, it is an invasive procedure and requires a significant amount of prep on the part of the patient in order to achieve successful visualization. 

Stool-based tests exist for individuals who do not wish to undergo colonoscopy. 

These are non-invasive and can be done at home and mailed to a laboratory for evaluation. The most advanced of these tests are designed to detect hidden blood or abnormal DNA in stool. Stool-based tests must typically be repeated every 1-3 years or so. 

The primary drawback of these tests is that they are not nearly as effective at detecting pre-cancerous polyps as colonoscopy. Furthermore, should polyps be present, the patient does not have the opportunity to have them immediately removed as they would with colonoscopy. 

Stool-based tests are also not appropriate for patients who are at high risk for colorectal cancer. 

Sigmoidoscopy

During this procedure, a tube with a camera and light is entered into the anus. Air is blown into the rectum via a tube for better visibility. Like a colonoscopy, the provider can remove polyps and take biopsies for further evaluation. However, only the sigmoid colon (the lower third portion) is examined in this procedure. So, if polyps are found, the rest of the colon will need to be examined via a colonoscopy. 

CT Colonography

During a CT colonography, a catheter is entered into the rectum to fill the colon with air. X-ray and CT technology is used to create a 3D image of the colon. Again, if there are polyps or abnormalities, a colonoscopy will still be needed.

Blood Test

There is an FDA approved blood test to screen for colorectal cancers as well. It checks the blood for DNA fragments shed by large polyps and lesions. A positive test still requires colonoscopy for confirmation, and the test can detect only about 83% of colorectal cancers. For this reason, it is only suitable for average-risk patients who are not experiencing any symptoms.   

Early Symptoms to Watch For

Colorectal cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, which is why screening is so important. However, potential warning signs include:

• Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
• Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
• Persistent abdominal discomfort (cramps, gas, or pain)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue or weakness
• Feeling like your bowel movements don’t empty all the way

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical evaluation promptly.

Who Is at Higher Risk? Factors That Increase Your Chances of Colorectal Cancer

Several factors can increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer, including:

Age

Cell mutation and DNA repair become less efficient as we age. Colon polyps also become more common over time, and some polyps can turn cancerous if left undetected. That's why screening guidelines now start at age 45, not 50.

Personal and Family History

• Personal history: if someone has had polyps or colorectal cancer before, they’re more likely to form new ones.
• Family history: shared genetics can increase cancer risk, especially if a first‑degree relative (parent, sibling, child) was diagnosed or if someone in the family was diagnosed young (<50). Some hereditary conditions (e.g., Lynch syndrome) also dramatically increase risk.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

This refers to Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Chronic inflammation repeatedly damages the colon lining, which increases the chance of abnormal cell changes and cancer over time. The longer a person has IBD, the higher the risk.

Diets High In Red Meat And Processed Food

Processed meats (bacon, sausage, deli meat) contain preservatives that generate carcinogenic compounds in the gut.

Red meats produce chemicals during high‑heat cooking (like grilling or frying) that can harm colon cells.

Low fiber intake is also linked with higher risk.

Smoking and Heavy Alcohol Use

Smoking: Tobacco carcinogens travel through the bloodstream to the colon, damaging DNA in colon cells.

Heavy alcohol: Breaks down into acetaldehyde, a known carcinogen, and can also cause chronic inflammation and liver changes that affect cancer risk.

Obesity

Excess body fat leads to issues like insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and higher levels of growth hormones-all of which can promote cancer cell development. Abdominal obesity, in particular, carries a higher risk. 

For the same reasons (insulin resistance, inflammation), Type 2 diabetes is also associated with a higher risk for colorectal cancer. 

Racial and Ethnic Background

Certain racial and ethnic groups are at higher risk for colorectal cancer. Black Americans have the highest incidence and mortality rates in the U.S. Ashkenazi Jewish individuals have higher risk due to certain genetic mutations. Higher prevalence in these groups may also be linked to discrepancies in access to care and screenings. 

Sex At Birth

Individuals assigned male at birth develop colorectal cancer more often and at younger ages. This may be due to hormonal differences and/or  lifestyle factors. In general, men have higher rates of red meat intake and alcohol and tobacco use. Men are also more likely to exhibit the android distribution of body fat, which tends to accumulate around the abdomen (remember that abdominal obesity is a risk factor). 

Post Menopausal Women

After menopause, estrogen levels drop. Estrogen may have a protective effect on the colon, so lower levels may slightly increase risk. Some studies suggest hormone replacement therapy might reduce the risk, but it has other health considerations.

Gallbladder Removal

Research shows a slight increase in colon cancer risk after gallbladder removal. Possible reasons:

• Bile flows continuously into the intestines instead of being released in controlled amounts
• Constant exposure to bile acids may irritate the colon lining over time

The increase is small, but it’s a noted association. Your doctor will discuss whether or not you should seek more regular screenings if you’ve had this procedure. 

How to Reduce Your Risk Through Lifestyle Changes

Small, sustainable changes can have a meaningful impact on long-term health. And, while not all cases are preventable, certain lifestyle choices can significantly lower your risk:

• Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Limit processed and red meat consumption
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Stay physically active
• Avoid smoking
• Limit alcohol intake
• Hormone replacement therapy for postmenopausal women
• Stay consistent with recommended screenings

When Is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month?

Colorectal cancer awareness month takes place every March. It’s a time dedicated to raising awareness about prevention, early detection, and treatment options.

What Issues Does It Highlight?

• The importance of routine colorectal cancer screening
• Rising rates among younger adults
• Barriers to screening, such as fear or lack of access in underserved communities
• The life-saving impact of early detection

How to Show Support During Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

There are many ways to get involved and spread awareness:

• Wear blue to show support
• Encourage friends and family to get screened
• Share educational resources on social media
• Participate in local awareness events or fundraisers
• Talk openly about colorectal health to reduce stigma
• Volunteer in your community to spread awareness
• Make donations to reputable colon cancer research organizations

Preventive Screenings at Our Primary Care in Destin

Prevention is the foundation of long-term health. The Crane Center team provides personalized guidance on colorectal cancer screening, helping you choose the right option based on your age, risk factors, and preferences. Whether you’re due for your first screening or need help staying on track with routine care, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Early detection can make all the difference, so schedule your preventive screening with our primary care team in Destin today.