Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: What You Need to Know and How to Take Action

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, observed every March, is a crucial time to raise awareness about one of the most common — and preventable — forms of cancer. While colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the US, early detection and lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the risk.

Continue reading to learn more about the importance of screening for colorectal cancer, risk factors, prevention, symptoms to watch for, and how you can support awareness efforts.

What Is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the digestive system. It usually starts as small growths called polyps, which can become cancerous if not removed. It’s one of the most common and potentially deadly cancers, but early detection through screening — such as colonoscopies — can significantly improve outcomes.

Who Is at Risk?

Colorectal cancer is a multifactorial disease, meaning that a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors contribute to its development. While some risk factors are beyond an individual’s control, making healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce the likelihood of developing the disease. Understanding these risk factors is essential for prevention, early detection, and better management.

Age and Colorectal Cancer Risk

One of the most significant risk factors for colorectal cancer is age. The likelihood of developing this cancer increases sharply after age 50, though in recent years, there has been a concerning rise in cases among younger adults. Experts are still studying the reasons behind this trend, but potential factors include changes in diet, obesity rates, and gut microbiome imbalances.

Genetic and Family History Factors

Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or certain genetic conditions have a significantly higher risk of developing the disease. These include:

• Lynch syndrome (Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer, HNPCC): A genetic disorder that increases the risk of colorectal and other types of cancer.
• Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP): A rare inherited condition that causes the growth of numerous polyps in the colon and rectum, which can become cancerous if untreated.
• A family history of colorectal cancer, especially in a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child), can double or triple a person’s risk.

Lifestyle and Dietary Risks

Several lifestyle habits have been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer, including:

• A diet high in red and processed meats: Eating large amounts of red meat (beef, pork, lamb) and processed meats (bacon, sausage, hot dogs, deli meats) increases the risk of colorectal cancer.
• Cooking methods like grilling and frying at high temperatures may also produce harmful compounds.
• Low fiber intake: A diet lacking in fiber-rich foods, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, can lead to digestive issues and an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Fiber helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome and promotes regular bowel movements.
• Obesity and excess body weight: Being overweight or obese is linked to a higher incidence of colorectal cancer, particularly in men. Excess weight can lead to chronic inflammation and insulin resistance, both of which contribute to cancer development.
• Smoking and heavy alcohol use: Long-term tobacco use is a well-established risk factor for multiple cancers, including colorectal cancer. Excessive alcohol consumption also increases risk, particularly in individuals who drink more than two drinks per day for men or one drink per day for women.

Chronic Medical Conditions That Increase Risk

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis cause chronic inflammation of the colon, increasing the likelihood of cancerous changes over time. Individuals with IBD often require regular colonoscopies to monitor for early signs of cancer.
• Type 2 Diabetes: People with type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk of colorectal cancer, possibly due to insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and co-occurring lifestyle risk factors like obesity and poor diet.

Sedentary Lifestyle and Physical Inactivity

A lack of regular physical activity can contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance, and slower digestion, all of which may elevate colorectal cancer risk. Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight, improve gut motility, and lower inflammation levels.

Reducing the Risk

While some risk factors, such as age and genetics, are unchangeable, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly lower the chances of developing colorectal cancer. Steps to reduce risk include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced eating and exercise.
• Eating a fiber-rich diet with plenty of whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.
• Limiting red and processed meat while choosing lean proteins like fish and poultry.
• Exercising regularly, at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
• Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption.
• Getting screened: colorectal cancer screenings, such as colonoscopies, can detect precancerous polyps and early-stage cancer when it is most treatable.

Understanding who is at risk for colorectal cancer allows individuals to take proactive steps toward prevention. By making informed lifestyle choices and prioritizing regular health screenings, the chances of early detection and successful treatment improve significantly.

Symptoms to Watch For

Colorectal cancer can be silent in its early stages, with few obvious symptoms, which is why screenings are so critical. However, some warning signs include:

• Persistent changes in bowel habits (blood in the stool, abdominal pain, constipation, or narrow stools)
• Blood in stool or rectal bleeding
• Unexplained weight loss and fatigue.
• Abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating
• Feeling like you can’t fully empty your bowels

If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t ignore them. Consult a doctor immediately.

Screening Saves Lives

Screening is the best way to prevent colorectal cancer, as it helps find precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer.

Recommended Screening Guidelines:

• Start at Age 45 (or earlier with a family history).
• Get a colonoscopy every 10 years (or sooner if you have polyps).
• Other screening options include stool-based tests (FIT, gFOBT, and DNA).

How You Can Support Colorectal Cancer Awareness

Share Information: Use social media to spread awareness. Follow and share content from organizations like:

• Colorectal Cancer Alliance
• Fight Colorectal Cancer
• American Cancer Society

Encourage Screenings: Talk to loved ones about the importance of screening, especially if they’re over 45.

Support Cancer Care Close to Home: Consider donating to Vail Health Shaw Cancer Center, which would help ensure that residents and visitors of Eagle and Summit counties receive the highest level of cancer care.