Don’t sit on your symptoms March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

DALLAS – The rate of advanced colorectal cancer diagnoses among young individuals is increasing at an alarming rate, and the disease is the second most common cause of cancer deaths nationwide. During Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March, experts at Parkland Health are raising awareness of the importance of early detection in saving lives. Black individuals are disproportionately affected, with the highest incidence rate of any racial or ethnic group in the U.S., according to the American Cancer Society. Black individuals face a 20% higher likelihood of being diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Hispanic individuals have the lowest rates of screening; only 60% of individuals report being up to date on colorectal cancer screening, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. If you or a loved one receive a colorectal cancer diagnosis, Parkland’s Cancer Program is here to help, with resources for patients throughout their entire treatment journey. “Cancer patients are faced with many obstacles and are very strong and resilient. It is important to have a good support system and take care of your mental health during and after treatment,” said Tam Lam, MPAS, PA-C, Medical Oncology Advanced Practice Provider at Parkland. “Our patient’s caregivers also have an invaluable...