March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: Have You Been Screened?

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. While a large majority of deaths related to the cancer could be prevented, many people have never been screened.

The American Cancer Society recommends people who are at average risk of colorectal cancer start regular screenings at the age of 45.

“It’s often called a silent cancer because it rarely presents with symptoms,” said Megan Morriss, MD, a general surgeon at Saint Luke’s Allen County Regional Hospital and Anderson County Hospital. “If you’re 45 or older or have any family history of polyps or colon cancer, don’t wait to get screened.” 

A colonoscopy is the most common test used to diagnose colorectal cancer. During the screening, doctors use a camera to look for abnormal growths, or polyps, on the lining of the large intestine. 

“A timely screening can often find colorectal cancer early, when it’s small, hasn’t spread, and can be more easily treated with surgery,” said Dr. Morriss.

Regular screening can even prevent colorectal cancer. A polyp can take as many as 10 to 15 years to develop into cancer. With screening, doctors can find and remove polyps before they have the chance to turn into cancer.

Most cases of colorectal cancer are age and genetics-related, but you might be able to lower your risk by managing your diet and physical activity. 

If you are overweight or obese, your risk of developing polyps and colorectal cancer is higher. Increasing physical activity, limiting red and processed meats, and eating more vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can lower your risk. Limiting alcohol intake and quitting smoking may also help reduce your risk. 

The frequency for follow-up screenings varies from person to person, depending on individual results and risk factors. Talk to your provider about when you should return for another screening, and if a screening is missed, there are some warning signs of potential colorectal cancer.

“The biggest warning sign is blood in the stool,” said Dr. Morriss, “That’s when you need to get help right away. Other common warning signs can include abdominal pain or cramps that don’t go away or unexplained weight loss.”

If you are holding off on screening because you dread getting a colonoscopy, there are other options, including at-home stool-based tests.

“Like with any cancer, the earlier it’s detected, the better,” Dr. Morriss said. “It’s important to talk to your primary care provider to see what’s right for you. If you haven’t had an annual exam for a while, start there.”

Dr. Morriss provides routine screening colonoscopies for patients who are symptom-free and at average risk for colorectal cancer. Patients who are at increased risk, are experiencing symptoms, or have a family history of colorectal cancer may be referred to a gastroenterologist for more specialized care.

Megan Morriss, MD, is a board-certified general surgeon with Allen County Regional Hospital and Anderson County Hospital. Dr. Morriss has specialized training in laparoscopic surgery, gastrointestinal surgery, skin and soft tissue pathology, and hernia surgery. She is passionate about building a relationship with each patient to provide individualized recommendations every step of  the way. Dr. Morriss sees patients at the Allen County Hospital Specialty Clinic and Anderson County Hospital Specialty Clinic and schedules procedures in Iola and Garnett.

Talk to your provider about a referral. For more information, call our specialty clinic schedulers at 620-365-1205 in Iola or 785-204-8002 in Garnett.