March may be Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, but the conversation around this preventable disease should happen year-round—because awareness saves lives. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., yet when caught early through appropriate preventive health screenings, it is also one of the most treatable.
While colorectal cancer was once considered a disease that primarily affected people over 50, that is no longer the case. In recent years, there has been a troubling increase in diagnoses among adults in their 30s and 40s. This shift highlights the urgent need for colorectal cancer awareness, especially among younger, seemingly healthy individuals who may not realize they are at risk.
There’s also a need to demystify the disease. Many people avoid screenings out of fear, discomfort, or a lack of symptoms—but colorectal cancer often develops silently. That’s why early detection methods, including colonoscopies and non-invasive stool tests, are so essential. These screenings can identify precancerous polyps before they become dangerous, giving patients the best possible chance at prevention or early intervention.
What Is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer refers to cancer that develops in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine and play a critical role in digesting food and eliminating waste. While often grouped together, there are distinctions:
- Colon cancer typically begins as benign polyps in the lining of the colon, which can become cancerous over time.
- Rectal cancer originates in the last several inches of the colon, closest to the anus, and may involve different treatment strategies due to its location.
Raising colorectal cancer awareness means understanding that this disease often develops silently—and progressively—making early detection methods absolutely essential.
Common Symptoms
In its early stages, colorectal cancer may present with no symptoms at all. As it progresses, warning signs may include:
- Changes in bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea, or narrow stools)
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Persistent abdominal discomfort (cramping, gas, or pain)
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
- A feeling that the bowel doesn't empty completely
Because many of these symptoms can overlap with other conditions like IBS or hemorrhoids, it's important not to ignore persistent changes—especially if you have known risk factors.
Risk Factors to Be Aware Of
Colorectal cancer can affect anyone, but certain factors can increase your risk:
- Age – Risk increases after age 45, though younger cases are rising
- Genetics – Family history of colorectal cancer or genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome
- Diet – Low fiber, high red meat or processed meat intake
- Inflammation – Chronic conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
- Lifestyle – Sedentary habits, smoking, heavy alcohol use
- Environmental exposures – Toxins, poor gut microbiome diversity, or high toxic burden
Early Detection Methods That Save Lives
One of the most powerful tools in the fight against colorectal cancer is early detection. Because this disease often develops slowly and without symptoms, many people don’t realize there’s a problem until it’s advanced. Fortunately, today’s preventive health screenings are both effective and accessible—allowing doctors to catch colorectal cancer early or even prevent it entirely by removing precancerous polyps.
Colonoscopy
Often considered the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening, a colonoscopy allows your doctor to view the entire colon and rectum using a thin, flexible camera. If any polyps are found, they can often be removed during the same procedure—preventing them from ever developing into cancer.
- Recommended every 10 years starting at age 45 for average-risk individuals
- More frequent screening may be needed if polyps are found or if you're high-risk
FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test)
This non-invasive, at-home stool test checks for hidden (occult) blood in the stool—a possible early sign of colorectal cancer. It’s easy to use, cost-effective, and doesn’t require dietary changes.
- Typically recommended annually
- If positive, a follow-up colonoscopy is necessary
Cologuard
Cologuard is another at-home stool test that checks for blood and DNA markers associated with colorectal cancer and advanced precancerous lesions. It offers a convenient option for those hesitant about colonoscopy, though it's not a replacement for patients at high risk.
- Usually recommended every 3 years for average-risk individuals
New Guidelines: Start Screening at Age 45
In response to increasing cases in younger adults, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends beginning colorectal cancer screenings at age 45, rather than 50. Those with a family history, a known genetic predisposition, or inflammatory bowel conditions may need to start even earlier—and screen more frequently.
Integrative Approaches to Risk Reduction
At the heart of Dr. Linette Williamson’s practice is a belief that true prevention happens when conventional medicine and holistic strategies work hand-in-hand. That’s why she takes an integrative oncology approach—combining gold-standard screenings like colonoscopies with proactive lifestyle, nutrition, and detoxification support to reduce cancer risk at its root.
Colorectal cancer isn’t just a genetic or age-related disease. It’s also deeply influenced by inflammation, diet, microbiome health, and toxin exposure—all of which can be modified with targeted, sustainable changes.
Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition
Dr. Williamson encourages patients to adopt a fiber-rich, plant-forward diet to naturally reduce inflammation and support detoxification:
- Cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli, kale, and Brussels sprouts) contain compounds that help the liver break down carcinogens and excess hormones
- Turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and supports immune modulation
- Legumes, whole grains, and berries support healthy digestion, stabilize blood sugar, and fuel beneficial gut bacteria
A consistent anti-inflammatory diet is one of the most powerful ways to reduce risk and promote long-term wellness.
Support Gut Health and the Microbiome
There’s a growing body of research linking gut health to colorectal cancer risk. An imbalanced microbiome—also known as dysbiosis—can contribute to chronic inflammation, impaired immune function, and reduced barrier integrity in the colon.
- Dr. Williamson uses GI mapping and functional stool testing to assess microbial diversity, inflammation markers, and digestive function
- Strategies include targeted probiotics, fermented foods, digestive enzymes, and prebiotic fiber to restore gut balance
- Regular detoxification support—including proper hydration, sweating, liver support, and regular elimination—also plays a key role in cancer prevention
Lifestyle Changes That Matter
Certain everyday habits significantly influence colorectal cancer risk. Dr. Williamson guides her patients in adopting practices that protect colon health and reduce systemic stress:
- Exercise regularly – Movement improves circulation, metabolism, immune surveillance, and bowel regularity
- Manage stress – Chronic stress can weaken immune function and increase inflammation
- Limit red and processed meats, while reducing alcohol and eliminating smoking
- Prioritize restorative sleep and healthy circadian rhythm patterns
These lifestyle changes are not about perfection—they’re about progress and empowering patients to make informed, health-affirming choices.
Prevention Is Power
Colorectal cancer remains one of the most preventable and treatable cancers—especially when it’s caught early. Through routine preventive health screenings, proactive lifestyle choices, and integrative support, patients can dramatically lower their risk and take control of their long-term health.
The rise in younger colorectal cancer cases is a call to action—not fear. It’s a reminder to listen to your body, know your family history, and prioritize regular screenings even if you feel “fine.” When combined with gut-healing nutrition, anti-inflammatory practices, and functional testing, this integrative oncology approach becomes a powerful defense against chronic disease.
Whether you’re approaching screening age, have a family history of colorectal cancer, or simply want a deeper understanding of your personal risk, Dr. Linette Williamson is here to guide you. With her whole-body, evidence-based approach, she partners with patients to design personalized cancer prevention plans that honor both science and individuality.
Take Charge of Your Health—Start with a Personalized Prevention Plan
Dr. Linette Williamson, MD – Integrative & Functional Medicine
📍 Locations: Encinitas, CA | Telemedicine available in Winter Park, FL
📱 Phone: (760) 875-2627
🌐 Website: www.LinetteWilliamsonMD.com
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