Colorectal Cancer Screening Saves Lives

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

Colorectal cancer, cancer of the colon or rectum, is the third-most-common cancer in men and women (excluding skin cancer). Sometimes abnormal growths, called polyps, form in the colon or rectum. Over time, some polyps may turn into cancer. Screening tests can find polyps so they can be removed before turning into cancer. Screening also helps find colorectal cancer at an early stage when treatment works best.

Recently, due to an increase in colorectal cancer in adults younger than 50, the recommended age to begin colorectal cancer screening has been lowered to 45. There are several testing options—ranging from yearly and every-three-years home screening tests to an every-10-years colonoscopy. Please contact your provider for the most appropriate screening for you.

Visit our Martin’s Point Health and Wellness pages— Spotlight on Women’s Health or Focus on Men’s Health for more information about colorectal cancer.

Please contact Member Services at 1-800-574-8494 for benefit coverage questions.