March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to chat about how easy and convenient it is to take care of your health right from home. Just like you can binge-watch your favorite shows on Netflix whenever you want, you can now get screened for colon cancer on your own schedule.

Understanding Your Risks

Colon cancer can affect anyone, but certain factors can increase your risk:

• Age: Most cases occur in individuals aged 50 and older.
• Family History: A family history of colon cancer or polyps can increase your risk.
• Personal History: Previous polyps or inflammatory bowel disease heighten your risk.
• Lifestyle Factors: Diets high in red and processed meats, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and lack of physical activity can contribute to an increased risk.

However, it's not just older adults who need to be vigilant. Recent trends show a concerning rise in colon cancer diagnoses among younger adults. Since 2020, there's been a 9% increase in colon cancer cases in people under 50.

"Waiting for symptoms is too late," says Dr. Christine Hachem, a gastroenterologist at Intermountain Health. "Screening occurs when you have no symptoms and feel well so you never develop symptoms or cancer. Remember, this is a preventable disease through screening."

This rise is alarming because younger patients often have more advanced cases by the time they're diagnosed. Factors contributing to this trend may include environmental exposures, dietary habits, and sporadic genetic mutations.

Younger individuals face unique barriers when it comes to colon cancer screenings, such as a lack of awareness about the need for screening, fear or discomfort associated with the procedure and challenges in navigating the healthcare system. Individuals 45-75 years old with average risk may qualify for Intermountain’s on-demand colon cancer screening kits, an option that allows you to get a test kit in the mail and send it back to the lab for testing without the need for an appointment. Individuals with a personal or family history of colon cancer or polyps should consult their healthcare provider about getting screened.

It's crucial for everyone, regardless of age, to understand their personal risk factors and discuss them with their healthcare provider to determine the best screening plan.

Easy and Convenient Screening Options

Intermountain Health offers home-based tests that are both effective and convenient, allowing you to get what you need, when you need it, without leaving your home.

• Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): This simple, non-invasive test detects hidden blood in the stool, an early sign of colon cancer. You can complete it at home, and if the results are positive or abnormal, a follow-up colonoscopy may be necessary.
• Cologuard: Combining the FIT with a DNA test, Cologuard detects abnormal DNA markers in stool samples. It's also non-invasive and can be done at home. A positive/abnormal result will require a follow-up colonoscopy.
• Colonoscopy: Considered the gold standard for colon cancer detection as it not only detects abnormalities but removes precancerous lesions, Intermountain Health makes it easier to schedule a colonoscopy ensuring you have access to this vital screening option.

Why Choose Home-Based Tests?

Home-based tests like FIT and Cologuard offer several advantages:

• Convenience: Complete the test at home without a doctor's visit.
• Non-Invasive: No preparation or sedation required.
• Accessibility: Ideal for those who may have difficulty scheduling or accessing colonoscopy appointments.

Take Action Today

Understanding your risks and exploring your screening options are vital steps in preventing colon cancer. If you are 45 or older you can order an at-home colon cancer screening kit to have a test kit mailed to you without needing a doctor’s visit. If you have risk factors like a family or personal history of colon cancer or polyps, talk to your healthcare provider about getting screened. Early detection can save lives.

"The best test to get done is a colonoscopy as it not only detects disease, but also removes precancerous lesions before they can grow," explains Dr. Hachem. "However, the best test to use for screening is the one that will get done."

Let's work together to raise awareness and encourage proactive health measures during Colorectal Cancer Awareness 2025. Your health is worth it.