Healthy Families – Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month with Justina Adangai

What screenings are recommended for colorectal cancer prevention?

FNP-C Justina Adangai spotlights Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, stressing the power of early detection and prevention when it comes to this often-silent disease – the second-leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. She explains the two key screening options: the at-home FIT test, which should be done annually, and the colonoscopy, the gold standard recommended every 10 years (or more frequently depending on individual risk). Justina also points out common warning signs – such as changes in bowel habits, narrow stools, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or abdominal pain – and offers lifestyle advice to reduce risk. This includes eating more fiber, drinking plenty of water, staying active, cutting back on red and processed meats, reducing alcohol and tobacco use, managing stress, and maintaining social connections. Her encouraging steps-to-prevent empowers viewers to act: Know the options, know your risk, and talk to your provider about screening.