Understanding Colorectal Cancer Risks: Personalized Healthcare for Proactive Prevention
Colorectal Cancer Risks and Prevention: Take Control of Your Health
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers with early detection and proactive care. Learn about risk factors, screening guidelines, and how Concierge Medicine of South Shore offers personalized preventive care to keep you healthy.
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to highlight the importance of screenings for both men and women. Colon cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the United States and one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. However, with early detection and preventive care, colon cancer is one of the most treatable and preventable types of cancer.
At Concierge Medicine of South Shore, Dr. Maria Clarinda Buencamino-Francisco provides proactive, personalized healthcare, ensuring that patients receive timely screenings, lifestyle guidance, and comprehensive preventive care. Understanding your risk factors and taking action early can significantly reduce your chances of developing colorectal cancer.
How Colon Cancer Risk Changes After 40
While colon cancer can develop at any age, the risk increases significantly after 40. Here’s why:
Cellular Changes Over Time: As we age, our cells undergo natural changes, which can lead to DNA mutations that increase the likelihood of abnormal growths in the colon.
Increased Exposure to Risk Factors: The longer a person is exposed to risk factors such as a poor diet, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle, the higher their likelihood of developing colorectal cancer.
Family History Becomes More Relevant: If a close relative has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, your risk of developing the disease doubles, making early screening even more critical.
Precancerous Polyps Are More Common: Many colorectal cancers begin as benign polyps that develop over time. Detecting and removing these early prevents them from becoming cancerous.
Key Risk Factors for Colon Cancer
Several factors can contribute to an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer, including:
Age: The risk of colorectal cancer rises sharply after 40 and continues to increase with age.
Family History: Having a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with colorectal cancer or polyps significantly raises the likelihood of developing the disease.
Diet: A diet high in red and processed meats and low in fiber increases colon cancer risk.
Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and lack of physical activity contribute to a higher likelihood of developing colon cancer.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis cause chronic inflammation in the colon, raising cancer risk.
Diabetes and Insulin Resistance: Studies have shown that individuals with Type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop colorectal cancer.
Why Early Detection Is Critical
The five-year survival rate for localized colorectal cancer is about 90%, meaning that early detection can lead to highly successful treatment outcomes. However, when colorectal cancer spreads beyond the colon and rectum, survival rates drop significantly.
Early detection through screenings allows doctors to identify and remove precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer. Routine screenings also help detect cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage.
Recommended Screening Guidelines
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults at average risk for colorectal cancer begin regular screenings at age 45. However, individuals with a family history or other risk factors may need to start earlier. Common screening methods include:
Colonoscopy (every 10 years): Considered the gold standard, a colonoscopy allows doctors to detect and remove polyps in a single procedure.
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) (annually): A non-invasive test that detects hidden blood in the stool, which may indicate early cancer or precancerous growths.
Stool DNA Test (every 1 to 3 years): This test looks for abnormal DNA and hidden blood in stool samples.
CT Colonography (every 5 years): A less invasive imaging test that can identify abnormalities in the colon.
Patients should discuss their individual risk factors with their doctor to determine the most appropriate screening schedule.
How Concierge Medicine Enhances Preventive Care
One of the biggest benefits of concierge medicine is the focus on preventive care and early detection. At Concierge Medicine of South Shore, Dr. Maria Clarinda Buencamino-Francisco offers personalized primary care that prioritizes proactive screenings and risk reduction strategies.
Comprehensive Risk Assessments
Detailed family history evaluations to determine early screening needs.
Genetic testing for inherited conditions like Lynch syndrome that increase colorectal cancer risk.
Timely and Accessible Screenings
Immediate scheduling for colonoscopies and other screening tests.
No long wait times, ensuring early detection and intervention.
Lifestyle and Nutritional Guidance
Personalized dietary plans rich in fiber, antioxidants, and whole foods to support colon health.
Exercise recommendations to promote gut health and overall well-being.
Close Monitoring and Follow-Up Care
Ongoing monitoring of gut health and any precancerous changes.
Coordination with gastroenterologists and oncology specialists if needed.
Taking Charge of Your Colon Health
Prevention is always better than treatment, and colorectal cancer is no exception. By understanding your risk factors, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and prioritizing routine screenings, you can take proactive steps toward reducing your risk.
At Concierge Medicine of South Shore, we are committed to helping you achieve long-term wellness through personalized, preventive care. If you’re over 40 or have risk factors for colorectal cancer, don’t wait—schedule your consultation today and take control of your health.
