Recognizing the Early Warning Signs of Colorectal Cancer: Guidance from St. Mary’s Health Care System

Are You At Risk? Schedule a Screening Today

Common Early Signs of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer can sometimes develop silently, but there are key signs that may indicate something isn’t right. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider.

• Changes in Bowel Habits: Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or a feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely.
• Blood in the Stool: Bright red blood or dark, tarry stools can be a sign of bleeding in the colon or rectum.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying could signal that your body is fighting an illness, including cancer.
• Ongoing Abdominal Pain or Cramping: Persistent pain, bloating, or discomfort in the stomach area may be a sign of a tumor affecting your digestive tract.
• Fatigue or Weakness: Constant tiredness, even after resting, could be due to blood loss or the body working harder to fight disease.
• Iron-Deficiency Anemia: Low red blood cell counts can be a sign of chronic internal bleeding, often from polyps or tumors.

What to Do If You Notice Symptoms

If you’re experiencing any of these signs, don’t wait: seek care soon. While these symptoms don’t always mean cancer, they should never be ignored.

1. Talk to Your Primary Care Provider: Your PCP can help evaluate your symptoms and recommend next steps, including prescribing screenings.
2. Schedule a Screening: Early detection through screenings like colonoscopies can catch cancer in its earliest stages.
   • Many insurance plans require a physician’s order.
   • Current guidelines recommend you start getting screened at age 45 – earlier if you have risk factors such as a family history of colorectal cancer.

St. Mary's Offers Care Close to Home

St. Mary’s offers comprehensive support, from initial screenings to expert specialty care.

Primary Care Locations:

• Athens Internal Medicine Associates – Athens, GA
• Community Internal Medicine of Athens – Athens, GA
• Georgia Family Medicine – Watkinsville, GA
• Good Samaritan Primary Care – Greensboro, GA
• Sacred Heart Primary Care – Lavonia, GA
• St. Mary’s Family Medicine – Bogart, GA
• St. Mary’s Internal Medicine Associates – Athens, GA
• St. Mary’s Primary Care – Athens, GA

Specialty Care Locations for Advanced Treatment:

• Athens General & Colorectal Surgeons – Athens, GA
• Athens General & Colorectal Surgeons – Greensboro, GA
• Sacred Heart General Surgery – Lavonia, GA

Several community-based providers also provide services at St. Mary’s Hospitals.