March is national colon cancer awareness month. Our goal each year is to help raise awareness about the steps to reduce your risk of contracting this cancer. People need to know that colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable, and beatable.

A unique challenge this past year has presented is that many people have put off getting necessary health screenings like colon cancer due to COVID-19 precautions or safety concerns. Unfortunately, diseases like cancer will not wait for vaccines or herd immunity.

“Please be proactive and learn about preventing this treatable cancer and joining us in sharing this life-saving message with friends and loved ones.”

– Jay Yepuri, MD

Colon Cancer Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase your risk of colon cancer. Some of these factors are beyond your control. But many are modifiable lifestyle choices.

Risk factors for colon cancer include:

  • Age
  • Personal/family history of colon cancer or polyps
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • Physical inactivity
  • Processed, high-fat diet
  • Obesity
  • Alcohol consumption
  • Smoking

Regarding lifestyle changes, keep in mind that most of us have slipped out of our regular routines at some point during the pandemic, so don’t feel like it is just you. The key point is simply for everyone to understand that these activities or lack thereof can lead to long-term health problems, not just colon cancer.

* Please discuss any dietary changes before making them with your doctor to ensure they will be optimal for your health.

Screening Guidelines

The American Cancer Society recommends beginning regular colon cancer screenings at age 45 for adults at average risk*, and follow-up screenings are done in 10-year intervals.

The key to beating colon cancer is early detection. While you will have a few testing options, colonoscopy is considered the gold-standard colon cancer screening exam. This is due to the accuracy and unique ability that allows your doctor to view the colon and biopsy/remove any polyps. Colonoscopy is the only exam that enables your doctor the ability to both view and removes polyps in the same exam.

If you live in the Bedford or Fort Worth area and would like to schedule a colonoscopy or have questions regarding insurance coverage, please give us a call at 817-267-8470 or use this link to schedule an appointment online.

*Average risk is defined for those NOT having a personal/family history of colon cancer, polyps, or a history of inflammatory bowel disease.

Colon Cancer Awareness Events – DFW 2021

Whether you have a personal connection to colon cancer or want to help raise awareness, the DFW area has had some great events in the past which you can participate in. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, we’ll participate in virtual events this March and remain optimistic that we might have in person run/walk event(s) later this year in the DFW area.

National Dress Blue Day

  • Date: Friday, March 5, 2021
  • Event Info: click here
  • Great opportunity to increase awareness at the office or with friends & family!

Colorectal Cancer 5k Walk-A-Thon

  • Date: Oct/Nov 2021
  • Location: Fort Worth, TX
  • Event Info: click here
  • We’ll update the specific event date & location info after it is released

Get Your Rear in Gear

*Many of the 2021 events have not been published. Check back using the links above for run/walk events in multiple Texas cities.