Don't Wait, Screen: Protect Your Health This March
Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: Taking Control of Your Future
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, providing an opportunity for community members to empower themselves with the knowledge and resources to protect their health.
This time can be used by community members to pledge to prioritize their well-being and take proactive steps towards tackling this preventable disease.
“Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when detected early, but many cases are diagnosed at later stages when treatment is more challenging. That's why regular screenings are so crucial,” says Dr. Constantine Melitas, of Dignity Health’s Mission Hope Cancer Center.
As an Advanced Therapeutic Endoscopist, Dr. Melitas is trained to manage many complex gastrointestinal, pancreatic, biliary, and liver diseases endoscopically.
What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer begins in the colon or rectum – the last part of your digestive tract. While risk factors like age, family history, and certain genetic conditions increase the likelihood, many people diagnosed with colorectal cancer have no known family history.
“This highlights the importance of regular screenings for everyone,” says Dr. Melitas.
Why Screenings Save Lives
“Early detection is key. Screenings can find polyps, or abnormal growths, in the colon before they become cancerous, allowing for their removal and preventing cancer from developing,” Dr. Melitas says.
Even if cancer is present, early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.
What Screening Options Are Available?
There are a range of screening options tailored to your individual needs and preferences.
These include:
Colonoscopy: The gold standard, a colonoscopy allows for a thorough examination of the entire colon and rectum, enabling the removal of polyps.
Sigmoidoscopy: Examines the lower portion of the colon.
Stool-based tests: These non-invasive tests check for blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colorectal cancer. Several types are available, including FIT (fecal immunochemical test). Typically, an abnormal test result requires a colonoscopy to confirm a diagnosis of colorectal cancer.
When Should You Start Screening?
“The recommended age to begin colorectal cancer screening is generally 45, but earlier screening may be recommended for individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors,” says Dr. Melitas.
Talk to your doctor to determine the best screening schedule for you.
Making an Appointment is Easier Than You Think
To learn more about Dr. Melitas, click here.
Find a Doctor at Dignity Health Central Coast to learn more about which preventive cancer screenings are right for you.
Let's raise awareness and encourage everyone to prioritize their colorectal health. Talk to your doctor, schedule your screening, and take control of your future. Your health is our priority at Dignity Health.