Standard U.S. Postage PAID Yakima, WA Permit No. 157 KERN LEGACY HEALTH PLANS 1115 Truxtun Avenue, First Floor Bakersfield, CA 93301 A LEGACY OF GOOD HEALTH is published as a community service for the friends and members of KERN LEGACY HEALTH PLANS, 1115 Truxtun Ave., First Floor, Bakersfield, CA 93301, telephone 661-868-3182. Information in A LEGACY OF GOOD HEALTH comes from a wide range of medical experts. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your health care provider. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. 2025 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Kern Legacy Health Plans Colorectal cancer: Why you should get screened Colorectal cancer is the second most deadly form of cancer in the United States. Adults ages 65 to 74 are more likely than younger people to get it. But recent data shows that colorectal cancer has increased among people ages 15 to 39. Routine colorectal cancer screening is important. Screening can help your provider find cancer early, when it’s easier to treat. In fact, screening might help them find and remove suspicious growths before cancer can form. How colorectal cancer begins Colorectal cancer usually develops from a growth, called a polyp, inside the colon or rectum. If a polyp becomes cancerous, it can spread into the wall of the colon or rectum. The cancer can then spread to other parts of the body. There’s no surefire way to prevent polyps from forming. You may be more likely to develop polyps if someone in your family has had them. You may increase your risk of developing polyps if you: ● Are physically inactive. ● Are overweight. ● Smoke. ● Drink alcohol heavily. Some, but not all, polyps become cancerous over several years if they are not found and removed. You can have polyps and not know it. Most of the time, they don’t cause symptoms. How and when to get screened When you start colorectal cancer screening depends on many factors, such as your overall health and family history. In general, you should begin at age 45. People over age 75 should talk with their doctors about the need and frequency for screening. There are different ways to be screened. Talk with your doctor about the test that is most effective for you. To make an appointment with a specialist, call 661-868-3182 or, for a list of contracted providers, visit www.kerncountyhealth benefits.com. Sources: American Cancer Society; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; National Cancer Institute; National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases A change in bowel habits, such as ongoing diarrhea, constipation or narrowing of stools. Blood in the stool or very dark or black stools. A feeling of incomplete bowel emptying. Abdominal pain or cramps. Feeling very weak or tired. Losing weight without trying. Getting screened is the best way to find colorectal cancer early, before it causes symptoms, when it may be easier to treat. Ask your doctor if it’s time to be screened. Signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer Source: American Cancer Society
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