Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: nurse talks prevention

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death. March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, so now is a great time to bring attention to this disease.

The best way to prevent this cancer is by getting screenings and raising awareness. Health officials say a good time to get a screening is at the age of 45, but if there is a family history of colon cancer, you should be screened 10 years before the age of their diagnosis.

Endoscopy clinical manager at Med Center Health, Jenny Goad, says, “It’s the most detectable, preventable cancer that you could have and screenings are available. We do these at Med Center Health, and I just can’t stress enough, that one procedure, one day, can save your life, and we have a great team here. They are educated, dedicated, and ready to serve the community.”

A diet high in fiber, staying active, drinking less alcohol and quitting smoking may also help, but getting screened is one of the most powerful prevention tools.