Colorectal Cancer Screenings Vital For Adults Aged 45+
2/27/2026
Early this year, colorectal cancer reached a public health milestone: It’s now the leading cause of cancer death for Americans under the age of 50.
Colorectal cancer usually starts as small growths called “polyps,” which can be spotted and removed before they become malignant – and that’s why screenings are so important in the fight against the disease.
Jessica Stephens, M.D., a colorectal and general surgeon with Northwest Colorectal Surgery at La Cholla, encourages patients of average risk to schedule screening colonoscopies at age 45 – as per guidelines from the Centers of Disease Control, the American Cancer Society, and other major health organizations. Dr. Stephens also recommends looking at your controllable risk factors.
“You can absolutely reduce your risk for developing colorectal cancer,” she says. “Most cancer prevention lifestyle habits look like those for heart health – stay active, maintain a healthy weight, eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains – and limit alcohol, red meats and processed sugars. If you use tobacco, it’s important to stop.”
If you’re at higher than average risk, your doctor may ask you to have an initial screening before age 45, or to be screened more frequently. Those risk factors include a personal or family history of colorectal cancer, ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease; a history of radiation to your abdomen or pelvis; and/or a genetic and hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome.
In addition to colonoscopy, the most commonly known screening, several types of tests can screen for colorectal cancer. Fecal occult blood test, sigmoidoscopy, virtual colonoscopy and DNA stool test are also used. Your doctor may suggest one, or more, of these strategies if they are right for you.
Depending on your age, a colonoscopy screening may be a covered wellness test under your insurance plan.
“Colorectal cancer is treatable in its early stages,” says Dr. Stephens, “so it’s crucial not to be afraid or uncomfortable about getting screened. Your doctor will help you formulate and carry out the best plan to maintain a healthy digestive system, no matter your age and stage of life.”
For more information about at Northwest Primary & Specialty Care, visit https://www.nwalliedphysicians.com/gastro.
Dr. Stephens will be part of Northwest Healthcare’s Women in Medicine Physician Panel from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18, at the Arizona Sands Club, located at 565 N. Cherry Ave. She, along with general surgeon Anyul Ferez-Pinzon, M.D., and Family Medicine Residency Program Director Lyndsey Kramp, M.D., will present on their experiences in advancing patient care and choosing a career in medicine. Reserve your spot at this event.
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