Colorectal cancer is responsible for an estimated 50,000 deaths each year. But thanks to increased colon cancer awareness efforts, the death rate has been dropping steadily since the 1980s.

March is National Colorectal Awareness Month, an observance dedicated to encouraging patients, survivors, and caregivers to share their stories, advocate for colorectal cancer prevention, and inform others about the importance of early detection. Dark blue ribbons and clothes are worn throughout March to spark curiosity and start a conversation about colon cancer awareness.

The Department of Gastroenterology at Florida Medical Clinic proudly supports this mission by offering colon cancer screenings at several locations throughout the Greater Tampa Bay area. We also believe that an informed patient is an empowered patient, which is why in honor of Colon Cancer Awareness Month, we’re laying out some of the most important information you should know about colorectal cancer.

Common Myths About Colorectal Cancer

Colon cancer is the second deadliest cancer. However, there are quite a few myths surrounding colon and rectal cancer that prevent people from getting tested.

Myth #1: “It only happens to men.”

The truth: The overall lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer for women (1 in 24) is only slightly lower than it is for men (1 in 22). Age is a much bigger risk factor than sex.

Myth #2: “I’m too young to get colon cancer.”

The truth: While it’s true that more than 9 out of 10 instances of colorectal cancer occur in people over the age of 50, the American Cancer Society recently changed their guidelines to recommend screenings starting earlier, at age 45. This is due to a sharp rise in the number of young adults diagnosed with colon cancer each year.

Myth #3: “Colonoscopies are painful.”

The truth: Colonoscopy is a common test familiar to many but not well known by all patients. Sure, it’s not exactly pleasant, but it’s not as bad as you think. For starters, most people only need one every 10 years.

To prepare for the procedure, you’ll have to avoid solid foods and take a bowel-cleaning substance the day before the procedure to clear your colon. During the procedure, you’ll receive a sedating medication to make you more comfortable, and most people can return to their normal activities that same day. All in all, the hassle is worth it. Precancerous polyps can be removed during the procedure, which is much easier than treating late-stage colon cancer, which may involve surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

Myth #4: “Colonoscopies are dangerous.”

The truth: A colonoscopy is a medical procedure, so yes, complications are possible. Rarely, a colonoscopy can create tears in the colon or trigger diverticulitis, an infection of the pouches inside the colon wall. Overall, the complication rate is estimated to be less than 1% for all complications. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you before the procedure, but in most cases, the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks.

If you’re still anxious about having a colonoscopy done after talking with your doctor, there are other tests used to screen for colon cancer. While a colonoscopy is still the most accurate test available, you may be more comfortable with a fecal blood test (FOBT) performed every 1 or 2 years, or a sigmoidoscopy, which is similar to a colonoscopy but is less intensive.

When Should You Be Screened for Colon Cancer?

For someone at an average risk of colon cancer, the American Cancer Society recommends having a colonoscopy once every 5 to 10 years beginning at age 45.

Someone at a higher risk of developing colon or rectal cancer may need to be tested earlier or more often. You have a higher risk of colon cancer if you have:

A family history of colorectal polyps/cancer

An inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis

An inherited syndrome, such as Lynch syndrome, that increases your cancer risk

Type 2 diabetes

Some colorectal risk factors can be controlled, such as:

Being overweight or obese

Smoking

Physical inactivity

Heavy alcohol use

High red meat consumption

Talk with your doctor about these risk factors and whether early screening is right for you.

How to Prioritize Your Colon Health

Regular screenings aren’t the only way to prevent colorectal cancer. There are lifestyle changes you can make today to prioritize your colon health and prevent cancer.

There is strong evidence to suggest that the following diet and exercise adjustments can significantly reduce your risk of colorectal cancer:

Adding more whole grains to your diet (3 servings per day)

Cutting back on red meat, such as beef and pork

Reducing your alcohol intake

Maintaining a healthy weight

Engaging in regular exercise

While making these lifestyle changes is important for cancer prevention and your overall health, they are not a substitute for cancer screenings. Colon cancer can develop over the course of 10 to 15 years before causing any symptoms. The detection and removal of precancerous polyps at least once every 10 years is crucial.

Talk with your doctor about what screening tests they recommend and how often. If you’re at an increased risk due to a family history of colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease, ask your doctor if you should start screening before the age of 45.

Steps You Can Take to Raise Awareness

Awareness is the first step to action. This March, there are many different ways that you can be a part of National Colon Cancer Awareness month.

If you’re able to donate to an organization that supports colon cancer awareness, education, and research, donate. Wearing a dark blue ribbon is another easy way to show your support for a loved one battling colon cancer.

You can also start a conversation with friends and family about the importance of colon cancer screenings, or take to social media to spread the word. If colon cancer has affected your life in any way – maybe you’re a survivor, caregiver, or lost a loved one – share your story. You never know what kind of impact you’ll have on someone else.

The Colorectal Cancer Alliance has more information about fundraising and educational events.

How Will You Fight Colon Cancer?

Between 2000 and 2014, death rates for colorectal cancer dropped 34% among patients 50 and older. By continuing to spread the word about the importance of regular screenings, we can bring the number of deaths closer to zero.

How will you be an advocate for colon cancer awareness in March? Whether it’s something as simple as wearing a blue ribbon to show your support or as involved as hosting a fundraiser, every bit helps to get the message across. At Florida Medical Clinic, our GI doctors empower patients to be active participants in their own health care. If you are over the age of 45 or at an increased risk of colon cancer, schedule an appointment with a board-certified gastroenterologist today.