Chicago City Wire

Colorectal cancer remains a significant health concern as the fourth most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. It is also the second-leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. This type of cancer typically originates from polyps in the colon, which can be removed before developing into cancerous cells. Screenings play a crucial role in detecting these polyps or early-stage cancers when they are still small and more manageable to treat.

Regular colorectal screenings are recommended for all men and women starting at age 45. However, individuals under 45 with specific risk factors should consider early screening options. These risk factors include a personal or family history of polyps or colorectal cancer, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes like familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome, and a history of abdominal or pelvic radiation for previous cancers.

Dr. Gerald Gantt, a colon and rectal surgeon at UI Health, emphasizes the importance of early detection: “Colorectal cancer is a treatable — and in some cases preventable — disease when it is detected early,” he states. Despite some short-term discomfort associated with screenings, Dr. Gantt underscores their long-term benefits for prevention and early detection.

UI Health's Division of Colon & Rectal Surgery is advancing treatment methods with minimally invasive procedures such as single-port surgery for early-stage rectal cancer that do not require abdominal surgery. Although these treatments have high success rates, many people avoid screenings due to the stigma surrounding colonoscopies. Dr. Gantt urges individuals to overcome this barrier: “Our team at UI Health has been at the forefront of new and innovative techniques that are improving outcomes for patients,” he explains.

Dr. Gantt further notes that patients diagnosed with colorectal cancers generally respond well to treatment compared to other types of cancers: “I want people to be aware of these treatments and that it’s worth getting screened.”

In observance of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, individuals are encouraged to schedule screenings by calling 312.413.7676 or visiting UI Health's Colorectal Cancer Program for more information on treatments and survivorship programs.