Men’s Health Month: Don’t Delay the Screening That Could Save Your Life
6/4/2026
Prioritize Colon Cancer Screenings and Routine Preventive Care
Men are often known for taking care of everyone else before taking care of themselves. This Men’s Health Month, DeTar Healthcare System is encouraging men across the Crossroads to make preventive care a priority—starting with routine screenings and colonoscopies that can detect cancer before symptoms ever appear.
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in men, yet it is also one of the most preventable cancers through regular screening and early detection. Recent trends are especially concerning, as colorectal cancer rates continue to rise among adults younger than age 50. National screening guidelines now recommend that average-risk adults begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45.
“One of the biggest misconceptions we still hear is that if you feel fine, you don’t need a colonoscopy,” said Dr. Mark Tullos, general surgeon with DeTar Medical Group. “The reality is that colorectal cancer often develops silently. Many patients have no symptoms at all until the disease is advanced. A colonoscopy gives us the opportunity to find and remove precancerous polyps before they ever become cancer.”
Unlike many cancer screenings that only detect disease, a colonoscopy can actually prevent cancer by identifying and removing abnormal growths before they become malignant. Dr. Tullos says that simple fact makes colonoscopy one of the most powerful preventive tools available in medicine today.
“Every day, we see the difference early detection makes,” said Tullos. “When colorectal cancer is found early, treatment is often more successful, less invasive, and associated with significantly better outcomes. In many cases, we’re able to prevent cancer altogether by removing polyps during the procedure.”
While age remains a significant risk factor, younger adults are increasingly being diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Individuals with a family history of colon cancer or polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, certain genetic conditions, or a personal history of polyps may need screening earlier than age 45. Lifestyle factors such as obesity, tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and diets high in processed or red meats may also increase risk.
Men should also be aware of warning signs that warrant immediate medical attention, including:
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Changes in bowel habits that persist
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent abdominal pain or cramping
- Fatigue or unexplained anemia
“Too many men put off routine screenings because they’re busy, nervous about the procedure, or simply think it can wait,” said Tullos. “But a colonoscopy is far easier than cancer treatment. Spending a day preparing for a screening could add years to your life and more time with the people who matter most.”
Men’s Health Month serves as an important reminder that preventive care extends beyond colon cancer screening. Annual wellness visits, blood pressure checks, cholesterol screenings, diabetes testing, and conversations with a primary care provider all play a critical role in maintaining long-term health. Many serious conditions can be detected early—before symptoms develop—when they are most treatable.
“Men tend to push through symptoms and delay seeking care,” said Tullos. “The strongest thing you can do for yourself and your family is to stay proactive about your health. Schedule the appointment. Have the screening. Know your risk factors. Prevention is always better than treatment.”
This Men’s Health Month, DeTar Healthcare System encourages men age 45 and older—and younger individuals with risk factors—to speak with their healthcare provider about colorectal cancer screening and other preventive health services.
To find a provider or schedule a wellness visit, visit MyDeTarDoctor.com.
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