March is colon cancer awareness month. Each year, at my gastroenterology practice, we take this opportunity to help promote local events and spread the awareness message that following the colon cancer screening guidelines is the best way to avoid this cancer.

As we’re in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, I wanted to emphasize the importance of not putting off necessary health maintenance services like colon cancer screening or not seeking an evaluation for digestive symptoms. The key to beating this cancer is early detection. When detected in a localized stage (has not spread outside of colon or rectum), the 5-year survival rate is 91%.

Also, keep in mind that certain habits can increase your risk of cancer. These include things like drinking alcohol, not staying physically active, and weight gain. Most of us have slipped out of our everyday routines at some point during the pandemic, so don’t feel like it is just you. The message is simply for everyone to understand that these activities or lack thereof can lead to long-term health problems.

“I don’t want anyone to become an avoidable statistic by not getting screened for colon cancer. Please follow the screening guidelines and help spread the awareness message to friends or loved ones of screening age. Together we can beat colon cancer.”

– Dr. H

Colon Cancer Screening Guidelines

For adults in good health and considered to be of average risk*, the American Cancer Society recommends starting colon cancer screening at age 45. Those that have an increased risk of colon cancer and certain ethnicities should begin screening before age 45.

Depending on your age and health history, those that are 45 years of age or older should be discussing when to begin their colon cancer screening with their primary care doctor. If you’re in the San Antonio area, you can call our office to schedule your colonoscopy at 210-615-8308 or request an appointment online.

Most insurance plans will 100% cover the cost of colon cancer screening for those at average risk. We wanted to point this out so that patients don’t view cost as a hurdle to getting screened for colon cancer.

*Average risk is defined for those NOT having a personal/family history of colon cancer, polyps, or a history of inflammatory bowel disease.

Colon Cancer Awareness Month Events San Antonio 2021

Whether you have a personal connection to colon cancer or just want to help raise awareness… the San Antonio area has some great events that you can participate in. I’ve provided basic information on each event below, along with a link to the event website. Also, I will update event information and/or add new events to this page as they are announced.

National Dress Blue Day

  • Date: Friday, March 5, 2021
  • Event Info: click here
  • Great opportunity to increase awareness!

Get Your Rear in Gear 5k Run/Walk & Kids’ Fun Run

  • Date: October 10, 2021
  • Location: Morgan’s Wonderland – 5223 David Edwards Dr, San Antonio, TX 78233
  • Event Info: click here

*All 2021 events have not been published. Check back using the link above for this run/walk event in multiple Texas cities.