March is known as Colorectal Cancer Month, and an expert in Dallas County describes how the disease is becoming more prevalent.

According to Community Health Educator Natalie Peters, over the past 25 years, colorectal cancer has seen a jump in numbers, especially in adults younger than 55. She indicates that there isn’t one main area that is causing this shift, but rather a multitude of factors, including high obesity rates, diets high in processed foods, lack of exercise, as well as environmental aspects. Peters tells Raccoon Valley Radio the recommended time to be screened for colorectal cancer is between 45-75 years old, but the amount can vary.

“The most common screening test is a colonoscopy, and that’s typically performed every 10 years for people with an average risk, but it is a good idea to talk to your primary care provider about any family history of colorectal cancer to help them understand your risk, so that they can make some screening recommendations for your personal situation. And then also it might be a good idea to check with your health insurance company, and also your health care provider to kind of determine which services would be covered by your insurance as well.”

Peters points out that symptoms of colorectal cancer are losing weight without trying, a change in bowel habits, rectal bleeding in the stool, ongoing abdominal discomfort, and constant weakness or tiredness. She emphasizes that if you start to notice any of these signs, you should  contact your local care physician.