by Family Physicians
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by Family Physicians
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March often makes us think of green, fresh starts, springtime, and a new season ahead. But there’s another important color this month: blue. 💙
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to education, early detection, and prevention.
As we step into the first Monday of March, it’s the perfect reminder to prioritize something we often put off, our health.
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Why This Matters
Colorectal cancer affects the colon or rectum and is one of the most common cancers in both men and women. The good news? It is highly treatable and often curable when caught early.
Screenings save lives. Early detection truly makes all the difference.
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Signs & Symptoms to Watch For
Colorectal cancer can sometimes develop quietly, but there are symptoms you should never ignore:
• Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stool) lasting more than a few days
• Blood in or on the stool (bright red or dark)
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent abdominal discomfort (cramping, gas, pain)
• A feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely
• Ongoing fatigue or weakness
Even subtle changes can be important. Trust your body.
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When Should You Call a Doctor?
📞 Call your healthcare provider if:
• Symptoms last more than a couple of weeks
• You notice rectal bleeding
• You have ongoing abdominal pain
• You feel unusually fatigued without explanation
• You have a family history of colorectal cancer
• You’re 45 or older and haven’t scheduled a screening
Routine screenings are now recommended starting at age 45 for average-risk adults, sometimes earlier if you have risk factors.
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Screening Options
Screenings may include:
• Colonoscopy
• Stool-based tests
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy
Your provider can help determine what’s best for you based on your health history and risk level.
While green may symbolize March, let’s also wear blue with purpose. Use this first Monday as a fresh start, schedule that appointment, encourage a loved one to get screened, and have conversations that could save a life.
Early detection is powerful. Prevention is possible. And awareness starts with us.
If you have questions about screening or symptoms, don’t wait. Reach out to your healthcare provider and take that step today.
Because your health deserves attention, this March and every month. 💙
Primary Care • Weight Management • Hormone Health • Testosterone • Sexual Health • Wellness From primary care to wellness and everything in between, we’re here to help you feel your best. Ready to make an appointment? Give us a call! We’re here to help.
We believe healthcare should be about more than simply adding years to life. It should be about helping you stay active, independent, healthy, and enjoying the life you love. Over 50 years of family medicine. A new focus on quality of life. A healthier future together.
We’re doing a little office clean-out and have some Styrofoam coolers available for anyone who could use them! And BONUS, we also have Miracle-Gro Pour & Feed ice packs that can be used to help feed your plants. Everything is FREE! Stop by the office and pick some up. You take it… we get a little more space. It’s a win-win!
There’s a lot happening behind the scenes at Family Physicians of Cedar Rapids… •A fresh new look •New faces on our team •New services & wellness options •And the same commitment to caring for our patients We’re growing, improving and making our office an even better place to care for you. Same roots. New growth.
