Every year in March, organizations and individuals around the country work to increase awareness for the risk factors, signs and symptoms, screening recommendations, and resources associated with colorectal cancer. Colorectal Cancer Awareness month is filled with activities and events aimed to educate people about the risks of this terrible disease. However, March of 2020 went differently than planned.
The arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States in early 2020 sent shockwaves through every community and organization. Many had to shutter their businesses, keep their children home from school, change daily routines, and brace for an uncertain future. The need to communicate about the spreading virus quickly became the priority.
With these changes, also came the suspension of elective procedures which included screening colonoscopies.
While a colonoscopy may seem like an unnecessary or “elective” procedure, it is critical in identifying earlier stages of cancer when there are often no symptoms and when the disease is more treatable and beatable.
A colonoscopy is the only test that goes beyond detecting colorectal cancer to actually preventing it. It is estimated that almost 19,000 cases of colorectal cancer were missed or delayed during the months of suspended elective procedures. That could result in more than 4,500 deaths just from this one disease.
We can all work together to make sure these numbers don’t come to fruition!
Are you late for your own colonoscopy? Schedule one today!
A colonoscopy can save your life. If you are 45 or older, routine colonoscopies are recommended. If you have a family history of the disease, it may be recommended that you are screened even earlier. It is possible to prevent colon cancer! Contact your primary care provider if you have questions, or schedule an appointment directly with MNGI Digestive Health – no referral needed!
Remind your friends and family to get their colonoscopy.
People are living very busy lives right now, but health should be everyone’s number one priority. A friendly reminder to your friends and family will show that you care, and it could keep them healthy and happy for many more years to come.
Educate yourself.
Does colorectal cancer run in your family? Do you know the warning signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer? Where will you turn for care if you need it? Take the time to research and learn more about these questions so you can have a plan in place if concerns do come up.
You can always count on MNGI Digestive Health to be the smartest choice in digestive care. If you have any questions, concerns, or want to schedule an appointment with us please call (612) 871-1145 or request an appointment online.
