National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: Understanding the Diagnosis 

Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the third most common cause of cancer-related death in both men and women in the United States. In March, National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of early detection and prevention to ensure the best possible outcomes for a diagnosis. Understanding the diagnosis process and what a diagnosis means for you is essential, as early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

What Is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month?

National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, observed every March, is dedicated to raising awareness about colorectal cancer, which includes cancers of the colon and rectum. This awareness month aims to emphasize the importance of regular screenings, educate the public on risk factors and symptoms, and support research efforts to improve cancer care. Through educational campaigns, community events, and social media initiatives, national campaign serves as a platform to encourage preventive measures and reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer.

Why Awareness and Early Detection Matter

Raising awareness about colorectal cancer is essential because early detection can save lives. According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for colorectal cancer detected at an early, localized stage is about 91%. However, only 1 in 3 cases are diagnosed at this stage, often because symptoms may not appear until the disease has progressed. Routine screenings can identify precancerous polyps, allowing for their removal before they develop into cancer. By increasing awareness, more individuals are likely to undergo screening, leading to earlier diagnoses and improved outcomes.

Understanding Colorectal Cancer: Causes and Risk Factors

Colorectal cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the colon or rectum grow uncontrollably. While the exact cause is unknown, several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease, including:

• Age: The risk of colorectal cancer increases with age, with most cases diagnosed in individuals over 50.
• Family History: A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps increases the risk, especially if a parent, sibling, or child has been diagnosed.
• Lifestyle Factors: Diets high in red and processed meats, lack of physical activity, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to colorectal cancer.
• Medical Conditions: Individuals with inflammatory bowel diseases (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis) or a history of colorectal polyps are at higher risk.
• Genetic Syndromes: Hereditary conditions like Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) significantly increase the risk.

Common Symptoms

Colorectal cancer may not present noticeable symptoms in its early stages. When symptoms do appear, they can include persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, changes in stool consistency, or changes in stool frequency. A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely, and blood in the stool or rectal bleeding may be symptoms of colorectal cancer. The blood may be bright red, dark red, or black.

Colorectal cancer can also cause abdominal discomfort, cramps, or pain, including bloating. Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or weakness may also be indicators of colorectal cancer’s effect on the body’s metabolism or may be a sign that the cancer cells are using the body’s energy supply. Weight loss and fatigue may also occur if a tumor in the colon gets large enough to block the colon and affect bowel habits. Experiencing any of these symptoms should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider, as early diagnosis greatly improves treatment outcomes.

How Colorectal Cancer Is Diagnosed

Diagnosing colorectal cancer involves a series of tests and procedures to confirm the presence of cancer cells and determine the extent of the disease. The diagnostic process typically includes the following steps:

1. Medical History and Physical Exam: The doctor reviews the patient’s medical history, family history, and symptoms, followed by a physical examination, including a digital rectal exam. 
2. Colonoscopy: Considered the gold standard for diagnosing colorectal cancer, this procedure involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the colon to inspect the entire length of the colon and rectum. If polyps or abnormal tissues are found, they can be removed or biopsied.
3. Biopsy: A sample of tissue is taken during a colonoscopy and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
4. Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans help determine if the cancer has spread to other areas of the body.
5. Blood Tests: Tests such as the carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) test can detect a protein produced by some colorectal cancers, aiding in diagnosis and monitoring.

Screening Options for Early Detection

Screening is essential for detecting colorectal cancer before symptoms appear. Several screening methods are available, each with its own advantages:

• Colonoscopy: Performed every 10 years for those with an average risk of developing colorectal cancer, this test is highly effective at detecting and removing precancerous polyps.
• Stool-Based Tests: These non-invasive tests include the fecal immunochemical test (FIT), which detects blood in the stool, and the stool DNA test, which identifies abnormal DNA associated with colorectal cancer. 
• Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy, this procedure examines the lower part of the colon and rectum and is recommended every five years for those with an average risk.
• CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy): A less invasive imaging test performed every five years for those with an average risk, to detect polyps and tumors.

Advances in Colorectal Cancer Treatment

Treatment for colorectal cancer depends on the cancer’s stage, location, and overall health of the patient. Recent advancements in cancer care have improved survival rates and quality of life. Common treatment options include:

• Surgery: Surgical removal of the tumor and affected tissue is the primary treatment for localized colorectal cancer.
• Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to kill cancer cells or stop their growth, often used after surgery or for advanced cancer.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams target and destroy cancer cells, typically used for rectal cancer.
• Targeted Therapy: Drugs that specifically attack cancer cells without harming normal cells are used for advanced cases.
• Immunotherapy: This treatment boosts the immune system’s ability to fight cancer and is effective for certain types of colorectal cancer.

How to Reduce Your Risk

While some risk factors for developing colorectal cancer are beyond control, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help lower the risk of colorectal cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is a great place to start, as obesity is a significant risk factor. Eat a balanced diet, limiting red and processed meats, and increasing the intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can significantly reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer. And finally, regular screenings, starting at age 45 or earlier for those with risk factors, are essential for early detection of non-cancerous polyps before they develop into cancer.

When to Talk to Your Doctor

If you experience symptoms such as persistent changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, or unexplained weight loss, schedule a visit with your doctor promptly. Additionally, if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors, discuss screening options and the appropriate age to begin testing. Early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve your chances of a successful outcome. Don’t wait, take proactive steps now to protect your health and encourage others to do the same.

This article was written for WHN by Dr. Jennifer Northop, a highly respected and board-certified gastroenterologist with a commitment to providing exceptional care for patients with digestive health concerns. With extensive experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions, Dr. Northrop offers a personalized approach that combines medical expertise with genuine compassion. She has also been recognized as the 2024 Physician of the Year by the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s Upstate New York chapter.

As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN does not agree or disagree with any of the materials posted. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement.  

Opinion Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy of WHN/A4M. Any content provided by guest authors is of their own opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything else. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. 

*NOTE: Author bio amended on 3/26/2025