March was Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, but it is always the right time to take the steps to protect your health! If you’re between the ages of 50 and 74, now is the time to get screened. While colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer, it has a 90 percent survival rate when caught early. Early detection means more treatment options and better outcomes.

Depending on your risk level, one of the screening options your health care provider might recommend is a colonoscopy, a test used to examine the lining of the large intestine. There’s no need to be shy about colonoscopies – they are a normal part of taking care of your health. Kensington’s screening clinic performs over 4500 of them every year.

We create a safe and supportive environment, where staff understand you might be anxious and keep you well-informed throughout the process. From reception to aftercare, our compassionate staff are there to make your experience as comfortable as possible.

Your health matters! Pay attention to signs like changes in bowel habits, blood in your stool, abdominal pain, or unintended weight loss. Take proactive steps to protect your health by knowing your family history related to colon cancer, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and, most importantly, speaking to your primary care provider about your eligibility to get screened.

Don’t let stigma get in the way of your health. This month, empower yourself by getting screened for colon cancer! To learn more, speak to your primary care provider or visit Cancer Care Ontario.