March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. In a recent interview with Fox 17’s Janice Allen, Dr. Diana Bitner of true. Women’s Health discussed the disease and how to protect yourself.
Colorectal Cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer in both men and women in the United States. And here’s a number that should stop you in your tracks: between 1988 and 2015, CRC diagnoses in adults under 50 increased by 63%.
Because this isn’t just a disease for older generations. It’s happening now, to younger women.
What Are the Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer in Women?
Knowing your risk factors is the first step. Here’s what the research shows:
- Family History and Genetics: If a close family member was diagnosed with CRC before age 50, pay attention. About 1 in 5 early-onset cases are linked to inherited genetic conditions, most commonly Lynch syndrome or Familial Adenomatous Polyposis. The recommendation: get tested for genetic mutations and schedule your screening colonoscopy 10 years before the age your family member was diagnosed.
- Diet and Lifestyle: High-sugar beverages, processed meats, and high-fat dairy create an internal environment where cancer can take hold over time. Small, consistent changes make a real difference. Aim for 20–30 minutes of movement daily, limit alcohol to fewer than 7 drinks per week, and if you smoke—this is your sign to stop.
- Obesity: A BMI over 30 is a recognized risk factor for colorectal cancer. And here’s what matters most: obesity is not a character flaw. It’s a health condition with many contributing causes, many of them outside your control. Safe, effective medical treatments exist. You deserve access to them without shame.
- Gut Microbiome Imbalance: Overexposure to antibiotics, low fiber intake, and chronic gut inflammation can all increase CRC risk. Harmful gut bacteria break down the protective lining of the colon, damage DNA, and block the immune cells that detect cancer. The fix? Feed your gut well. Aim for 35 grams of dietary fiber daily from sources like berries, broccoli, beans, avocado, and whole grains. Add fermented foods–kefir, kombucha, kimchi, sauerkraut, or pickles–to support healthy bacteria.
When and How Should Women Get Screened for Colorectal Cancer?
The standard recommendation is to begin CRC screening at age 45. But if you have one or more of the risk factors above–especially a family history–don’t wait.
What are the colorectal cancer screening options?
There are several effective options:
- Colonoscopy: the gold standard. It detects not just existing cancer, but pre-cancerous polyps before they become cancer. Recommended every 10 years for average-risk individuals.
- Cologuard: a non-invasive DNA stool test that screens for tumor DNA. Done every 3 years.
- Blood-based tests: available annually and continuing to improve in accuracy.
The right choice depends on your individual risk profile. Talk with your provider about which option makes the most sense for you.
Can You Reduce Your Risk of Colorectal Cancer?
Yes. And that’s an important part of this conversation.
You can’t change your genetics. But you can change the conditions in your body that allow cancer to grow:
- Quit high-sugar sodas
- Move your body consistently
- Protect your gut
- Know your family history
- And most importantly, get screened
CRC caught early is highly treatable. Pre-cancerous polyps, removed during a colonoscopy, never get the chance to become cancer at all.
And that’s not a small thing–that’s your life.
The Bottom Line
Colorectal cancer is rising in younger women. The risk factors are real, but so is your ability to address them.
Know your history. Eat to support your gut. Move your body. And talk to your provider about screening before you think you need it.
You don’t have to wait for symptoms. You don’t have to wait until 45.
You deserve proactive care. This is what it looks like.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the early warning signs of Colorectal Cancer for women?
A. Symptoms can include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, cramping, or persistent fatigue. However, early-stage CRC often has no symptoms — which is exactly why screening matters.
Q. At what age should women start colorectal cancer screening?
A. The current guideline recommends starting at age 45 for average-risk individuals. Women with a family history of CRC before age 50, or known genetic risk factors, should speak with their provider about starting earlier.
Q. What foods help prevent colorectal cancer?
A. A high-fiber diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains is associated with reduced CRC risk. Limiting processed meats, high-fat dairy, and sugary beverages also makes a meaningful difference.
Q. Is colorectal cancer hereditary?
A. It can be. Conditions like Lynch syndrome and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis significantly increase risk. If you have a family history of CRC-especially before age 50-genetic testing is worth discussing with your provider.
Q. What is the most accurate test for colorectal cancer?
A. A high-quality colonoscopy is considered the gold standard. It detects both cancerous and pre-cancerous conditions and allows for immediate removal of polyps during the procedure.