Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: Why Screening Could Save Your Life

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and while it may not be the most comfortable topic to discuss, it is one of the most important.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.

The encouraging truth?

It is also one of the most preventable cancers when detected early.

At LaRocca Medical, we believe prevention is powerful.

And screening is one of the most effective tools we have to protect long-term health.

What Is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer begins in the colon or rectum. In many cases, it starts as small growths called polyps. Over time, some polyps can develop into cancer.

Here’s the hopeful part:
Most polyps can be found and removed before they ever become cancer.

That is why screening matters even when you feel completely well.

When Should Screening Begin?

According to the American Cancer Society, adults at average risk should begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45.

Earlier screening may be recommended if you have:

• A family history of colorectal cancer

• A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease

• Certain inherited genetic conditions

• A history of colon polyps

Because we see our patients every three months, we regularly revisit preventive care timelines and family history updates. If your risk changes, your plan should too.

Screening Options: More Than One Path

Many people avoid screening because they assume a colonoscopy is the only option.

While colonoscopy is the gold standard, it is not the only choice.

Colonoscopy

• Typically performed every 10 years if results are normal

• Allows for detection and removal of polyps during the same procedure

• Most comprehensive screening method

There is preparation involved, but most patients tell us afterward that it was more manageable than they expected.

Stool-Based Tests

• Completed at home

• Non-invasive

• Performed more frequently

• Abnormal results require follow-up colonoscopy

During your visit, we discuss which screening method aligns with your health history, comfort level, and risk profile.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach and there shouldn’t be.

Symptoms to Never Ignore

Early colorectal cancer often causes no symptoms, which is why screening before symptoms appear is so important.

However, you should reach out if you notice:

• Changes in bowel habits

• Blood in the stool

• Persistent abdominal discomfort

• Unexplained weight loss

• Ongoing fatigue

If something feels off, trust that instinct and let’s talk about it.

Can You Reduce Your Risk?

Yes and many risk-reducing strategies overlap with overall wellness.

Research supports lowering risk by:

• Eating a fiber-rich diet

• Limiting processed and red meats

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Staying physically active

• Avoiding tobacco

• Limiting alcohol intake

Small, consistent habits over time matter more than extreme changes.

This is where lifestyle and preventive medicine work together.

Addressing the Fear Around Screening

We often hear:

• “I don’t have symptoms.”

• “I’m nervous about the prep.”

• “I’ll get to it later.”

It is completely normal to feel hesitant. But postponing screening carries more risk than the screening itself.

When colorectal cancer is detected early, treatment outcomes are significantly better.

When detected late, care becomes more complex.

Screening is not about expecting the worst. It is about protecting your future.

Our Preventive Approach at LaRocca Medical

Because we see our patients regularly throughout the year, preventive care is not a once-a-year conversation it is ongoing.

We provide personalized care by:

• Review your personal and family history in detail

• Monitor changes over time

• Discuss appropriate screening timelines

• Coordinate referrals and follow-through

• Answer questions as they arise

This continuity allows us to be proactive rather than reactive.

Your health plan should evolve with you.

Protecting Your Health Starts with a Conversation

Colorectal cancer is one of the few cancers we can often prevent not just detect early, but actually prevent through screening.

You do not need symptoms to start the conversation.
You do not need to feel certain.
You simply need to ask the question.

Prevention begins with awareness and continues with action.

Have Questions or a Family History?

Let’s Talk.

If you are 45 or older, or if you have a family history of colorectal cancer, bring it up at your next visit.

If screening has been on your mind, write it down and we will address it together.

You can also send a message through the patient portal so we can review your risk and guide next steps.

At LaRocca Medical, preventive care is personalized, thoughtful, and proactive.

You do not have to navigate these decisions alone and the best time to protect your future health is now.