March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is urging residents to learn more about the disease.
According to the organization, colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer related deaths. The American Cancer Society estimates there will be 4,510 new cases of colorectal cancer and 1,670 deaths due to the disease in Michigan this year.
Through colorectal cancer screening, doctors can find and remove hidden growths (called “polyps”) in the colon before they become cancerous. Removing polyps can prevent cancer altogether.
“Adults age 50 and older should be regularly screened for colorectal cancer,” Dr. Eden Wells, MDHHS chief medical executive, said in a news release. “Unfortunately, many people aren’t getting tested because they don’t believe they are at risk or they aren’t aware of the different testing or screening options. The importance of early detection cannot be overstated. Make it a priority to discuss the different testing options, including at-home tests, with your provider.”
Colorectal cancer risk increases after age 50. Those with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps should talk to their doctor about starting testing before age 50.
For resources for uninsured residents, and for more information about testing and prevention, visit the MDHHS’s cancer prevention and control website.
