Colon cancer has the fourth-highest ranking in cancer deaths in Iowa, and Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month seeks to decrease that number by stressing early detection and prevention.

The American Cancer Society now recommends that everyone at average risk of being diagnosed with colon cancer start regular screenings at age 45. Those with a family history of the disease or who have other risk factors should talk with their physician about screening at a younger age. There are different screening tests for colon cancer, but Kim Durst with the American Cancer Society recommends getting a colonoscopy to find abnormal growths in the colon or rectum.

Durst advises those who balk at the preparation and procedure of a colonoscopy, “You just need to really look at the big picture and the importance of catching cancer early. No one enjoys having to drink the stuff that they have us drink and to go through all that the day prior to, but when you look at it where it can save your life it’s just so important. And they make it easier and easier as time passes, so it’s not as scary as it used to be.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state some studies suggest people may reduce the risk of colon cancer by increasing physical activity, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding tobacco. To learn more about the risk factors for colon cancer, listen to Wednesday’s Let’s Talk Guthrie County program with Durst on air and at raccoonvalleyradio.com.