March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of getting screened for colorectal cancer beginning at age 45. Reaching middle age is an important milestone and a reminder to focus on health practices that can save your life.
As one of the few fellowship trained, board-certified colorectal surgeons practicing outside Oklahoma’s major metro areas, I have seen firsthand how someone can have colorectal cancer and not know it. Symptoms are often absent in the early stages, which is why screening is recommended even when you feel healthy.
Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths, but routine screenings can detect it early, when it is most treatable. These screenings can help doctors identify and remove abnormal growths before they become cancerous. There is no need to travel long distances for preventive care; our community hospital, Great Plains Regional Medical Center, plays a critical role in protecting the health of families across rural western Oklahoma.
It is important to recognize potential warning signs for colorectal cancer. Changes in bowel habits, blood in or on your stool, unexplained weight loss, or ongoing abdominal pain, aches or cramps may all be signals that a screening test is needed.
Understanding your personal risk is also key. Colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer death in people under 50 and the second deadliest cancer overall. If you or a close family member have a history of colorectal cancer, gastrointestinal diseases or certain hereditary syndromes, you may need to begin screening earlier or undergo testing more frequently. Your doctor can help determine the screening plan that is right for you.
As a healthcare professional in a rural community, I am grateful to practice in a field where I can help neighbors and families prepare for the unexpected. Whether it is a routine screening or a life-saving surgery, I take pride in knowing our community has access to quality health care close to home. Preventive healthcare should not require long drives and hours away from work and family.
At Great Plains Regional Medical Center, we are committed to turning awareness into compassionate action. Through timely screenings and patient-focused care, we are working every day to detect colorectal cancer earlier and build a healthier future for our community.
Edward Fazendin, MD, is board certified in both General Surgery and Colon & Rectal Surgery, specializing in surgical care for gastrointestinal conditions, including colorectal disease, hernia repair, and soft tissue procedures.
