BUCKHANNON — St. Joseph’s Hospital recognizes March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness month.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States and is one of the most common cancers among both men and women. It often starts with no symptoms, which is why screening is so important. 

Screening tests can find precancerous polyps, enabling you to receive early treatment, which is when it is most effective. The screening age has been lowered to 45 this year due to the number of younger people diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

Visit https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal/ for more information on colorectal cancer, how to lower your risks, symptoms, risk factors, and different screening options. One day can save your life; if you are 45 or older, talk to your primary care provider today about getting screened.