If you’re under age 50, be aware: Cases of colorectal cancer are rising.

“That’s the most concerning thing I’m seeing right now,” says surgeon Matthew Bond, DO, with LVPG General Surgery — Tunnel Road, Pottsville, part of Jefferson Health. “We’re seeing colorectal cancer in younger and younger people. Because of this, symptoms like blood in the stool or a change in bowel habits should never be ignored.”

New Screening Guidelines:

• Adults age 45 at average risk: Begin screening colonoscopies.

• Adults at higher risk based on a family history of colorectal cancer: Talk to your primary care clinician for guidance. Clinicians often recommend screenings about 10 years before the age at which a close relative was diagnosed.

Colonoscopy is still the gold standard

Screening colonoscopies remain the gold standard for catching colorectal cancer early, Dr. Bond says.

However, new screening tests, including stool DNA tests, are more accurate and sensitive than before, notes Ryan Hawley, DO, general surgeon at LVPG General Surgery — Carbon. While not a substitute, these options may be considered as a first step for those at average risk who are reluctant to undergo a colonoscopy.

“It’s almost like prescreening,” Dr. Hawley says. “If it comes back positive, then a colonoscopy will be beneficial.”

Colonoscopy anxiety

People are often anxious about undergoing a colonoscopy, but the procedure is safe and not as difficult or uncomfortable as most people think.

“The worst part of the colonoscopy is the day before, and even that is much easier than it used to be,” Dr. Bond says, noting that people undergoing colonoscopies now have more and easier options for bowel prep.

Prevention

Both doctors emphasize the importance of diet in cancer prevention. Dr. Hawley notes that a growing body of evidence links colorectal cancer to obesity and diets high in ultra-processed foods. These foods often contain added fats, salt and other additives, and have less nutritional value. “I can’t stress it enough: nutrition, nutrition, nutrition – that’s the ultimate prevention,” Dr. Hawley says. Stress and sleep can also affect cancer risk.

Avoid ultra-processed foods:

• Packaged breads

• Breakfast cereals

• Snacks such as chips, crackers, cookies and sweets

• Sugary drinks like sodas and energy drinks

• Processed meats such as hot dogs and chicken nuggets

• Frozen ready-to-eat meals

• Instant or prepared items like sauces, soups and pasta dishes

Talk to your primary care clinician about your colon cancer risk. To make an appointment with Dr. Bond or Dr. Hawley, call 888-402-LVHN (5846) or visit LVHN.org.