March 11, 2026 / Niki Elliott
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when caught early — yet many people still delay or avoid screening. The truth is simple: screening saves lives. By identifying problems before symptoms appear, screening can detect cancer early or even prevent it altogether.
At Baltimore Medical System, we believe prevention is one of the most powerful tools in healthcare. Through education, referrals, and community partnerships, BMS helps patients access the colorectal cancer screenings they need to stay healthy.
Let’s break down why screening matters and what your options are.
What Is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer begins in the colon or rectum, parts of the digestive system responsible for processing waste. Most colorectal cancers start as polyps, small growths on the inner lining of the colon.
Over time, some polyps can turn into cancer.
The encouraging news?
If polyps are found during screening, they can often be removed before cancer ever develops.
That’s why routine screening is so important.
Who Should Get Screened?
The American Cancer Society recommends that adults at average risk begin screening at age 45.
You may need to start earlier if you:
Have a family history of colorectal cancer
Have inflammatory bowel disease
Have had polyps found in the past
Experience symptoms such as:
Blood in the stool
Persistent abdominal pain
Unexplained weight loss
Changes in bowel habits
Even if you feel healthy, screening is still essential — many people with early colorectal cancer have no symptoms at all.
Why Early Detection Matters
When colorectal cancer is detected early, the five-year survival rate is over 90%. Unfortunately, many cases are diagnosed at later stages when treatment becomes more difficult.
Screening helps by:
Detecting precancerous polyps
Finding cancer before symptoms appear
Allowing doctors to begin treatment as early as possible
In short, screening turns a potentially life-threatening disease into something that can often be prevented.
How Baltimore Medical System Can Help
At Baltimore Medical System, our goal is to make preventative care accessible, understandable, and affordable for everyone in our community.
BMS providers can:
Help determine when you should start screening
Provide education about screening options
Refer patients to trusted specialists for colonoscopy services
Connect patients with programs that help reduce cost barriers
Support patients through follow-up care and next steps
Our team works with patients across Baltimore to ensure that preventive screenings — including colorectal cancer screenings — are part of a complete approach to health.
Take the First Step Toward Prevention
Your health is worth protecting, and screening is one of the simplest ways to do it.
If you are 45 or older, or if you have concerns about colorectal cancer risk, talk with a healthcare provider about getting screened.
Early detection saves lives — and the best time to take action is now.
Learn more about colorectal cancer screening and available locations:
[Insert BMS Screening Page Link]
Or call 443-703-3600 to speak with a member of our team about your screening options.
