Prioritizing Health: Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
March marks Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a critical time to raise awareness and encourage healthier lifestyle choices as rates of colorectal cancer (CRC) among young adults continue to rise. A local physician at New Horizon Health Center emphasizes the importance of early detection and proactive measures in the fight against this disease.
Rising Incidences Among Young Adults
Data from the Colorectal Cancer Alliance reveals a troubling trend: while screening rates have improved and mortality rates decreased in older populations, colorectal cancer cases among individuals under 50 are climbing. In fact, colorectal cancer has emerged as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in this younger demographic, making it the second deadliest cancer overall. Alarmingly, approximately 75% of young patients are diagnosed at advanced stages, contributing to a mere 13% survival rate for metastatic cases.
The American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force have reacted to these rising numbers by reducing the recommended age for initial colon cancer screenings from 50 to 45 for those without a familial history of the disease. Dr. Henry Imperial, chief medical officer at New Horizon Health Center, underlines the necessity for high-risk individuals, particularly those with a family history, to begin screenings even earlier.
Access to Care: A Vital Component
Dr. Imperial points out that several factors, such as healthcare access, cost, and public health issues, significantly influence the likelihood of developing colon cancer. In regions like the Rio Grande Valley, where a large portion of the population is uninsured or underinsured, the high costs of medical care often deter residents from seeking timely treatment. This can result in missed diagnoses or late-stage cancer detection.
Despite these challenges, New Horizon Health Center collaborates with esteemed organizations like MD Anderson and Exact Science to facilitate vital screenings for local residents. MD Anderson aids patients with positive stool tests by assisting them in obtaining necessary colonoscopies. Moreover, Exact Science provides “Cologuard,” a stool DNA-based colorectal cancer screening test, further improving accessibility for patients in the area.
The Importance of Colonoscopies
A colonoscopy is a powerful tool in cancer prevention, enabling physicians to detect and remove pre-cancerous lesions, such as polyps, before they develop into cancer. Unlike other cancer screenings, a colonoscopy can actually prevent cancers rather than simply detecting them after they have formed. Dr. Imperial states, “Colonoscopy is one of the tests that prevents cancer, unlike mammograms, where once you see it, cancer is already present.” This highlights the urgency of undergoing regular screenings.
Healthier Lifestyle Choices
In addition to screenings, Dr. Imperial emphasizes the importance of adopting healthier lifestyle habits to combat colon cancer risk factors. These changes can also mitigate the risk of other conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. “If you take care of the risk factors for colon cancer, we’re also addressing risks for other types of cancers,” he explains.
While committing to healthier lifestyles may seem daunting, Dr. Imperial reassures that it doesn’t necessitate an overhaul of one’s diet. It’s more about moderation and limiting unhealthy food choices. For example, he notes, “I still love my burger but not very often.” Enjoying favorite foods in moderation can lead to a balanced diet that promotes overall health.
Take Action: Schedule Your Appointment
To gain further insights into colorectal cancer, preventive measures, and to make appointments, visit the New Horizon Health Center website. Clinics are conveniently located in Brownsville and Laguna Vista, providing access to essential healthcare services.
By increasing awareness about colorectal cancer and advocating for healthier lifestyles, individuals can take significant steps towards lowering their risk. This March, during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, commit to prioritizing your health and encourage those around you to do the same.
