(SAN ANTONIO) – CHRISTUS Health recognizes March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month by providing crucial information about the second-deadliest cancer in the U.S., which can be detected through screenings.

“Colorectal cancer is located in the colon or rectum,” said Dr. German Almonte, general surgeon with CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System. “It can start as a noncancerous tumor, or polyp, but it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of the cancer.”

Signs and Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

Dr. Almonte notes that symptoms could include changes in bowel movements, such as diarrhea or constipation; changes in stool consistency, color, and shape; and abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating. He advises seeking medical attention if symptoms persist for one to two weeks. However, if rectal bleeding occurs, an expedited evaluation is strongly recommended.

Importance of Colonoscopy Screening

“A colonoscopy is needed to evaluate for colorectal cancer,” Dr. Almonte explained. “During the procedure, we inspect the lining of the colon and rectum, and the sooner a polyp is found, the better.”

During a colonoscopy, the patient is sedated while a colonoscope—a small, lighted camera attached to a flexible tube—is inserted through the anus and advanced through the colon. Air is pumped into the colon to inflate it, allowing the physician to examine the lining on a monitor.

Treatment Options

“Treatment will depend on the stage of colorectal cancer when it’s found,” said Dr. Almonte. “If it’s isolated in the colon, then surgery is our first option. If it’s advanced and has traveled to the lymph nodes, chemotherapy and/or radiation may be used to shrink the tumor before surgical removal.”

When to Start Screening

The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force now recommends adults start getting screened for colorectal cancer at age 45, five years earlier than previous guidelines. This change, implemented in 2021, reflects the rising incidence of colon cancer among younger adults.

While experts are unsure why colorectal cancer rates are increasing in younger adults, potential risk factors include poor diet, obesity, lack of exercise, tobacco and alcohol use, and environmental exposure to chemicals. Family history also plays a significant role.

“Early detection increases the chance of a cure,” Dr. Almonte emphasized. “That is why it’s important to highlight National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, so people can learn what it is and when screenings should start.”