March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and early detection can save your life when it comes to colon cancer. Colon cancer almost never begins as cancer, in fact, it usually starts as a benign polyp. However, if that polyp is left undetected and is allowed to grow, it may become colon cancer. If colon cancer is found early enough it may be treated, or even removed. On the other hand, left undetected, colon cancer can spread to the stomach, pancreas and liver, and become one of the deadliest of cancers. That’s why KTBS and GIS are partnering together to help you know the warning signs, and have a colonoscopy at least by age 45. If you have a family history of the disease, 40 is the recommended age. Warning signs include a change in bowel habits, and blood in the stool. GastroIntestinal Specialists encourage you to get screened during the month of March.


Making treatment decisions

Making treatment decisions

It’s important to discuss all of your treatment options, including their goals and possible side effects, with your doctors to help make the decision that best fits your needs. It’s also very important to ask questions if there's anything you’re not sure about. If time permits, it is often a…

What can I do to reduce my risk of colorectal cancer?

What can I do to reduce my risk of colorectal cancer?

Almost all colorectal cancers begin as precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Such polyps can be present in the colon for years before invasive cancer develops. They may not cause any symptoms, especially early on. Colorectal cancer screening can find precancerous pol…

What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?

What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?

Colorectal polyps and colorectal cancer don’t always cause symptoms, especially at first. Someone could have polyps or colorectal cancer and not know it. That is why getting screened regularly for colorectal cancer is so important.