Preventing colon cancer starts long before symptoms appear. Did you know that regularly seeing your primary care provider can help reduce your risk of getting colon cancer?

Primary care offers routine screenings, risk assessments, and lifestyle guidance that can help you protect yourself from colon cancer. 

Six simple ways staying connected with your PCP can help you reduce your risk of getting colon cancer.

PCPs Are Crucial To Catching Early Signs Of Colon Cancer

Building a relationship with a primary care provider means your provider can keep an eye out for risk factors and early symptoms of colon cancer. With your provider’s help, catching these signs early could make a huge difference in the success of your treatment.

Routine Colon Cancer Screenings

Screenings for colon cancer are very important to catch the disease in its early stages (while it is still very treatable). Establishing a relationship with a primary care provider you trust can ensure you get routine colon cancer screenings at the right time.

There are several screening tests available for colon cancer, and these begin at different ages. Your provider can help you determine which type of screening (and frequency) is best based on your health status and history.

Lifestyle And Diet Changes To Reduce Risk

Preventing colon cancer also starts by modifying your daily habits. Your primary care provider can help educate you and provide guidance on lifestyle factors that may need modification. This includes specific diets and exercise plans that can help prevent cancer, such as eating enough fiber and avoiding ultra-processed foods.

Support and Guidance

It is normal to be alarmed or scared if you've experienced any symptoms that may indicate colon cancer.

In this case, your primary care provider acts as a clear resource and first line of support to navigate these symptoms and determine their cause. Having a primary care provider you trust can make it easier and more comfortable to discuss symptoms when they first arise (rather than ignoring them without the help you need).

Ongoing Follow-Up

Screenings for colon cancer sometimes require ongoing follow-ups, such as repeat colonoscopies. Visiting your primary care provider regularly can help you stay on schedule for repeat screenings and make sure important preventive steps aren't missed. Your primary care provider can also help coordinate referrals. Remember, it's always helpful to have someone else looking out for your health.

Managing Preexisting Conditions

Other chronic health conditions could put you at a higher risk for developing colon cancer, such as those who have ulcerative colitis and other types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Your primary care provider can help provide support in managing other health conditions to reduce your risk of colon cancer. In these cases, your doctor may recommend more frequent colon cancer screenings to help you proactively manage your health.

Find a Provider Near You

Make colon cancer prevention part of your everyday routine. Finding and establishing a relationship with a primary care provider is essential to preventing colon cancer. Visiting your doctor regularly and staying connected can help support early detection and peace of mind.

To learn more, find a center near you and connect with a team that can serve as your partner in learning how to stay healthy.