Dear Editor:

In recognition of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, I am writing to encourage community members to stay up to date on colorectal cancer screenings.

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer that kills men and women in the United States, but screening tests can prevent it from developing or allow it to be treated before it becomes fatal.

Most colon cancers develop from polyps in the colon or rectum. Polyps are a growth of tissue that can turn into cancer. Screening tests can help find polyps before they become cancerous so they can be easily removed and help reduce the patient’s risk of cancer.

A colonoscopy isn’t the only screening option. There is increasing evidence that the Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), a simple, take-home test, and colonoscopies are equally effective screening tools for colon cancer.

Most importantly, please do not wait until you have symptoms of colon cancer to be screened.

Here is additional information on screening recommendations:

• Regular screening is recommended for all adults 50 to 75 years old

• If you are between 76 and 85 years old, ask your doctor if you should be screened.

• African-Americans should begin screening at 45-years old.

• Those with a first degree relative with colon cancer should have a colonoscopy 10 years prior to the age of diagnosis of their first degree relative.

• Patients with Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) should discuss screening strategies with their doctor.

Talk to your doctor about which type of screening test is right for you and how often you should be screened for colorectal cancer.

Dr. Tim Goltz

Lincoln Medical Partners Physician

Damariscotta