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Senior Times - March 2026 Page 3Exceptional Orthopedic CareOur orthopedic and sports medicine team has extensive experience treating bone and joint conditions. From hip and knee replacement to minimally invasive procedures and robotics, we%u2019re focused on achieving superior clinical outcomes. We partner with our patients every step of the way and offer same day appointments to make it easier to get a new problem assessed quickly. As the region%u2019s leader in orthopedics, exceptional care comes naturally to us. It%u2019s in our bones.Learn more at bronsonhealth.com/ortho. March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. It%u2019s a serious disease that is highly treatable when caught early. That%u2019s why it%u2019s important to know your risk and to start screening for colorectal cancer at the appropriate age.What Are My Risks for Colorectal Cancer? Several factors can increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer. While you don%u2019t have control over factors like your family history, other risk factors may be within your control.Here are risk factors to be aware of:%u2022 The risk of colorectal cancer increases with age but also affects younger adults. That is why the American Cancer Society now recommends screening begin at age 45 due to rising cases in younger adults.%u2022 A history of inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn%u2019s disease or ulcerative colitis.%u2022 A family history or personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps.%u2022 Certain inherited genetic factors such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and Lynch syndrome.%u2022 Lifestyle choices play a significant role in colorectal cancer risk. Here%u2019s where you can make a difference to help decrease your risk:%u2022 Maintain a healthy weight%u2022 Stay physically active%u2022 Maintain a healthy diet, limit red or processed meats%u2022 Quit smoking%u2022 Limit your alcohol useWhat Are the Screening Options? Early detection is crucial in the fight against colorectal cancer and regular screening can spot small growths called polyps before they turn into cancer. Screening for colorectal cancer is critical because in many cases this cancer is curable when it is caught in the early stages. Colon cancer screening options for average risk patients include: Colonoscopy: This is the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. Using a thin, flexible camera, your doctor will be able to see your entire colon. The colonoscopy is the only screening test that allows your doctor to remove precancerous polyps. Because the colonoscopy is such a thorough test, it only needs to be performed once every 10 years in average risk patients if no polyps are seen. It may need to be done more frequently if you have a family history of cancer or if polyps were seen on your initial colonoscopy. Stool-based tests: These tests check for blood or DNA markers in stool samples, such as a fecal occult blood test (FOBT), a fecal immunochemical test (FIT), and multi-targeted stool DNA test (Cologuard). While these tests are less invasive than a colonoscopy, they may need to be done more frequently and a positive result requires a follow-up colonoscopy.CT Colonography: Also known as a %u201cvirtual colonoscopy,%u201d a CT colonography creates a computer simulated view of the inside of the colon using images generated by a CT scanner. This screening option is less invasive than a colonoscopy, but still requires a bowel preparation and you will need a full colonoscopy if there are any positive findings on the scan.Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: A flexible sigmoidoscopy is similar to a colonoscopy in that a thin, flexible camera is inserted into the rectum. The scope allows the doctor to visually check for polyps or cancers in the sigmoid colon and rectum. Because this test does not screen the entire colon, you will need to do a FIT test annually and repeat the flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years. No matter your age, it%u2019s always a good idea to speak with your primary care provider about the best screening options and timing for you. If you are 45 years or older or have a family history of colorectal cancer, use Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month to get informed and take control of your colorectal health. Information is available at bronsonhealth.com/digestivehealth.Taking Control of Your Colorectal Health%u2022 Review and understand your risks %u2022 Find out you family%u2019s health history%u2022 Adopt a healthy diet and stay active%u2022 Speak with your doctor about colorectal cancer%u2022 Schedule regular screeningsIf you do not have a primary care doctor, Bronson Care Advisors can help you choose one based on your personal preferences, medical needs, insurance and location. They can even help schedule your first appointment. You can reach a Bronson Care Advisor at (269) 341-7788.Dr. Michael Klingler sees patients at Bronson Colon & Rectal Surgery Specialists on Capital Avenue in Battle Creek, located next to Bronson Gastroenterology Specialists. Together, the specialists at these two practices provide the only complete, expert digestive health care services in the Battle Creek area. You can contact Dr. Klingler at (269) 441-1771. LET%u2019S WORK TOGETHER TO FIGHT COLORECTAL CANCERBy: Michael Klingler, MD