Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month highlights importance of early screening

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – March marks Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, bringing attention to one of the most common cancers in the United States.

Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum and often begins as small growths known as polyps.

Over time, these polyps can become cancerous if left untreated.

Experts say there is no single cause of colorectal cancer.

Instead, a combination of factors may contribute to its development.

Dr. Alan Hyde with Parkridge Medical Center says lifestyle choices can play a role, though no single factor is definitive.

“Diet may have a factor as well. A low-fiber diet and a high red meat diet have been somewhat linked to potential increases in colorectal cancer, but there is not a definitive link. It is likely a combination of genetics, environment, and diet that all come together,” Hyde said.

Health professionals emphasize the importance of early detection through regular screenings.

They say if colorectal cancer runs in your family, you should begin screening 10 years earlier than the recommended starting age of 45.

Doctors add that routine screenings can help catch the disease early, when it is most treatable, and encourage people to speak with their healthcare providers about their individual risk.