GENESEO, N.Y., Mar. 2, 2023 – March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and Livingston County is reminding residents between the ages of 45-75 to talk their primary care physician about scheduling a routine screening. The County is also encouraging residents to wear blue on Friday in support of those who have been afflicted with the disease.
One of the deadliest forms of cancer in the United States, colorectal cancer is expected to cause nearly 53,000 deaths in 2023. This disease is also one of the few forms of cancer that has seen a significant increase in diagnoses among those younger than 55 in recent years. Overall, it is estimated that one in 24 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer within their lifetime.
Colorectal cancer causes a myriad of recognizable symptoms including a persistent change in your bowel habits like diarrhea or constipation or a chance in the consistency of your stool. Additionally, it can lead to rectal bleeding or blood in your stool, persistent abdominal discomfort such as cramps, gas or pain along with the feeling that your bowel doesn’t completely empty. Colorectal cancer can also cause severe weakness and fatigue.
Should you frequently experience any of these symptoms, it is highly recommended that you talk to a doctor about scheduling a screening. Screening can find the warning signs of colon and rectal cancer, which allows doctors to take action to prevent the disease or limits its impact.
Learn more about colorectal cancer by visiting the Colorectal Cancer Alliance’s website.
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About Livingston County:
Founded in 1821, Livingston County, N.Y., is comprised of more than 61,000 residents in 17 towns located across 631 square miles of the Finger Lakes region.