Protecting Colon Health Through Prevention and Early Detection
Haga clic en la bandera en parte superior de la página para traducir al español
Pezé sou drapo anwo paj la pou Kreyol
Iliana Rodriguez, RN, gives demonstration inside Giant Colon to patients
March is recognized nationwide as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about colorectal cancer and the importance of prevention and early detection. Colorectal cancer remains one of the most diagnosed cancers in the United States, yet it is also one of the most preventable when caught early. This month serves as a powerful reminder that informed choices, healthy habits, and routine screening can save lives.
Each year, more than 150,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and over 50,000 individuals lose their lives to the disease. It is currently the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men and women combined. In recent years, healthcare providers have also seen a rise in diagnoses among younger adults. Awareness and proactive care at every age is more important now than ever before.
CHI physician, Dr. Saint Anthony Amofah, emphasizes that maintaining a healthy colon often begins with everyday lifestyle choices.
“Things like a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fiber support healthy digestion and can significantly reduce the risk of colorectal disease,” he said. “Limiting processed foods and red meats, staying physically active, and maintaining a healthy weight all contribute to improved colon health.”
Avoiding tobacco use and limiting alcohol consumption also play an important role in reducing overall risk, Dr. Amofah explained.
While healthy habits are essential, screening remains one of the most effective tools in preventing colorectal cancer. Many cases develop without symptoms in their early stages, making routine screening critical.
According to medical guidelines, adults at average risk should begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45 and continue regular screenings through age 75. Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors may need to begin screening earlier, based on guidance from their healthcare provider.
CHI will host a Colorectal Cancer Awareness event on March 26 from 10am to 3pm at its Doris Ison Health Center. Guests can walk through a giant colon and learn about the signs of colorectal cancer. There will be free screenings, demonstrations, and guidance from clinical teams.
But CHI offers accessible screening options throughout the year, designed to meet the needs of patients. These include Cologuard, a non-invasive, at-home screening test that looks for signs of colorectal cancer and precancerous changes. The CHI team can also connect you to scheduling a colonoscopy, the gold standard for colorectal screening. A colonoscopy allows doctors to both detect and remove precancerous polyps during the same procedure, helping to stop cancer before it starts. As one CHI physician notes, the most important screening is the one that gets done, and having multiple options helps patients take that first step.
“Colorectal Health Awareness Month highlights the importance of prevention, education, and early detection,” Dr. Amofah said. “By adopting healthy lifestyle habits and staying up to date with recommended screenings, you can significantly reduce your risk of colorectal cancer.”
CHI remains committed to supporting the health of the communities it serves by providing preventive care, education, and access to life-saving screenings. Protecting colon health today helps build a healthier tomorrow for families across Miami-Dade and Monroe counties.
Stay updated on health news, local events, and more!