March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, and the HSHS Hospital System alongside Prevea Health is reminding everyone about an important update in colon cancer screening recommendations announced late last year.
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) and the American Cancer Society now recommend adults age 45 to 75 be screened for colon cancer, and adults age 76 to 85 consult with their doctor if they should be screened.
Previously, it was recommended adults begin colon cancer screening at age 50.
The reduction in age from 50 to 45 is due to findings from USPSTF that an estimated 10.5% of new colorectal cancer cases occur in persons younger than 50 years.
To schedule a colonoscopy with Prevea Health in Green Bay and Oconto Falls, call (920) 429-1700, and in Sheboygan, call (920) 457-4400.
