Atrium shares resources during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Dr. David Armstrong, a colon and rectal surgeon at Atrium Health, said early detection is important.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – A colon and rectal surgeon at Atrium Health is sharing resources and insight during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

Dr. David Armstrong, a colon and rectal surgeon at Atrium Health, said early detection is important and encourages people to be screened by age 45. Armstrong also said those with a family history of colorectal cancer should get screened earlier.

“Colorectal cancer is on the surge and especially amongst younger individuals,” says Armstrong. He added that he has seen more people in their 20s being diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

Armstrong said one contributing factor to the rise in colorectal cancer is ultra-processed food and diet. He added that ultra-processed food is cheap and accessible, which does not help the growing situation.

Armstrong said anyone experiencing significant weight loss, a change in bowel movements or stomach pain should contact a primary care doctor.