MATTAWA — President Obama issued a proclamation at the beginning of the month declaring March as “National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

“It seems like there are health care awareness campaigns every day, week and month of the year,” said Chris Schuler, MD, Columbia Basin Health Association. “However, Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month is one we want to pay close attention to.”

It is estimated that 130,000 people will be diagnosed with colon and rectal cancer this year.

Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum, according to the American Cancer Society. Colon cancer affects the large intestine (colon) and rectal cancer affects the end of the intestine.

The majority of colorectal cancer is found in the glands inside the colon or rectum,” Dr. Schuler said. “It is important for us, especially as we age, to be more aware of our bodies and what is happening to us medically.”

Symptoms of colorectal cancer include blood in the stool, change in bowel movements, fatigue, unexplained weight loss and pain in the abdomen.

“It’s important to visit your medical provider if you experience any of these symptoms. A cancer caught early is easier to treat than one that is advanced,” Dr. Schuler said. “Preventive measures include exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and diet and limiting/quitting smoking and excessive drinking.”

Dr. Schuler also said there are some risk factors that cannot be prevented, such as age, family history, having another condition like inflammatory bowel disease or type two diabetes, or race and ethnicity.

Colorectal cancer screening usually starts at the age of 50. However, if patients have any of the risk factors, or are having symptoms, screening should begin earlier.

Dr. Schuler is a family practice physician who has been treating patients in Othello since 2003. He also takes care of obstetric patients. He works full-time at CBHA’s 14th Avenue Medical Center.