doctor-patient-consultation Colorectal cancer—often referred to simply as colon cancer—develops in the colon or rectum. At Family Practice Center, our healthcare providers are committed to educating patients about this serious and surprisingly common disease. Knowledge is one of the most powerful tools in preventive health, and understanding the risks and warning signs of colon cancer can help you take proactive steps for early detection and treatment.

Here are three must-know facts about colon cancer that everyone should be aware of:

Fact #1: Colon Cancer Affects Everybody

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Cancer Society, colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. While your risk may be higher if you have a family history of colon cancer or other colon-related health issues, this disease does not discriminate. It affects men and women, as well as people of all ethnicities, at similar rates. This is why screening for colon cancer is essential for everyone—not just those with known risk factors.

Fact #2: Colon Cancer Is Becoming More Common for Younger People

Although the risk of colon cancer increases with age, recent data shows a concerning rise in cases among people under 50. In fact, rates have steadily increased for younger adults over the past several years. As a result, experts now recommend that average-risk individuals begin screening at age 45 instead of 50. Alarmingly, colon cancer can even occur in people in their 20s and 30s, making awareness and early detection more important than ever.

Fact #3: Colon Cancer Screenings Can Be Life-Saving

Most colon cancers begin as small growths called polyps that form in the lining of the colon or rectum. While not all polyps become cancerous, some can grow and develop into cancer over time. Detecting these polyps when they are still small and in their precancerous stage is a proven and essential method for preventing colon cancer. This is why screening for colon cancer is so important.

Despite the proven benefits, the CDC reports as much as a third of adults are not up to date on their current colon cancer screening recommendations, and the overwhelming majority of these people have never had any screening test performed.

The Bottom Line

Colon cancer is highly preventable and treatable when caught early. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—take a proactive approach to your health. To learn more or schedule a preventive wellness visit near you, contact Family Practice Center. We have nine convenient metro Atlanta locations to better serve our patients. And stay up to date on our blog posts for more health and wellness tips, and news.