3/11/2026
CHRISTUS Health recognizes March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month by providing crucial information about the second-deadliest cancer in the U.S., which can be detected with routine screenings.
In 2026, the American Cancer Society estimates nearly 160,000 new colorectal cancer cases resulting in more than 55,000 deaths nationwide.
Nearly of adults diagnosed with colorectal cancer at the earliest stage live for 5five years or more, compared to only 16% of those diagnosed at the most advanced stage, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
“Colorectal cancer often begins as a noncancerous polyp in the colon or rectum, and detecting it early makes a tremendous difference,” said Dr. Philip Cole II, colon and rectal surgeon with CHRISTUS Health - Coushatta Rural Health Clinic. “Recognizing symptoms is important, but screening before symptoms appear is the best way to prevent serious illness.”
Common symptoms include changes in bowel habits such as diarrhea or constipation; changes in stool consistency, color or shape; and abdominal pain, cramping or bloating.
A colonoscopy remains the most effective way to evaluate colorectal cancer. During the procedure, a sedated patient undergoes an examination of the colon using a small, lighted camera attached to a flexible tube. Polyps can be identified and removed during the procedure, reducing cancer risk.
Treatment for colorectal cancer varies depending on the stage at diagnosis.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends adults start getting screened for colorectal cancer at age 45, five years earlier than the previous guidelines. The change in 2021 was based on the trend of growing cases among younger adults.
Experts point to poor diet, obesity, limited physical activity, tobacco and alcohol use, environmental exposures and family history as possible contributing factors to the increase. National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is a way for people to learn about the cancer, how to spot it and when to be screened for it.
