Colorectal cancer is one of the most common — and most preventable — cancers in the United States. At Bellaire and East Jordan Family Health Centers, our providers, nurses, and care management team are here to help you understand your risk, choose the right screening option, and take steps to protect your long-term health.
Why Colorectal Cancer Screening Matters
Colorectal cancer includes cancers of the colon and rectum. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., yet it is highly preventable and treatable when found early.
Each year in the United States:
- Over 150,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer
- More than 50,000 lives are lost
While most cases occur in adults over age 50, rates among younger adults are rising, making awareness and early screening more important than ever.
The Good News: Screening Saves Lives
Colorectal cancer often develops without symptoms, especially in its early stages. Screening can:
- Find precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer
- Detect cancer early, when treatment is most effective
National guidelines recommend that most adults begin screening at age 45. People at higher risk may need to start earlier.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
You may need earlier or more frequent screening if you:
- Have a family history of colorectal cancer
- Have certain inherited conditions, such as Lynch Syndrome
- Have inflammatory bowel disease
- Have type 2 diabetes
- Are experiencing symptoms such as:
- Changes in bowel habits
- Rectal bleeding
- Abdominal discomfort
- Ongoing fatigue or weakness
- Unexplained weight loss
If you have symptoms, talk with a healthcare provider right away.
How Our Care Team Can Help
At Bellaire and East Jordan Family Health Centers, you’re not navigating this alone. Our nurses and care management team can help you:
- Understand your personal risk factors
- Learn about screening options, including colonoscopy and at-home stool tests
- Coordinate appointments and follow-up care
- Answer questions and support you every step of the way
We’re here to make screening clear, manageable, and accessible.
Screening Options
There are several effective screening options available. Your provider or care manager can help determine which is best for you based on your age, risk, and medical history. Options may include:
- Colonoscopy
- At-home stool-based tests, such as FIT
Our team will help explain what to expect and coordinate any follow-up care.
How Our Care Team Supports You
At Bellaire and East Jordan Family Health Centers, our nurses and care management team provide personalized support, including:
- Education about colorectal cancer risk and prevention
- Help scheduling screenings and referrals
- Follow-up reminders and coordination of care
- Ongoing support before and after screening
We’re here to make preventive care easier and more approachable.
Lowering Your Risk
Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce your risk of colorectal cancer. We encourage:
- Regular physical activity
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Not smoking
- Limiting alcohol use
- Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fiber, and calcium
Small changes can make a meaningful difference over time.
Take the Next Step
If you’re 45 or older, or if you have risk factors for colorectal cancer, now is a good time to talk with your healthcare provider about screening.
You can also explore a free, personalized screening recommendation based on your risk factors at quiz.getscreened.org.
Contact Bellaire or East Jordan Family Health Centers today to schedule an appointment or speak with our care management team.
