Colorectal cancer is a serious health concern, but early detection can save lives. For El Pasoans, understanding the full spectrum of screening options—beyond the traditional colonoscopy—can make all the difference. University Medical Center of El Paso is at the forefront of offering cutting-edge tools to help detect colorectal cancer early, giving patients a better shot at prevention and successful treatment.
How Common is Colorectal Cancer in the U.S.?
According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer remains one of the most diagnosed cancers in the United States. In 2026, it’s estimated that there will be about 108,860 new cases of colon cancer (55,410 in men and 53,450 in women) and 49,990 new cases of rectal cancer (28,750 in men and 21,240 in women). These numbers highlight the importance of timely screening, even for individuals without symptoms.
5 Signs It’s Time to Get Screened
While routine screening is recommended for adults starting at age 45, certain warning signs should prompt an earlier visit. Look out for:
- Persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stool that lasts more than a few days.
- Unexplained blood in stool. Bright red blood or darker stools may indicate bleeding in the colon or rectum.
- Abdominal discomfort. Cramping, gas, or pain that doesn’t resolve with diet or lifestyle changes.
- Unintended weight loss. Losing weight without trying can sometimes be linked to underlying gastrointestinal issues.
- Fatigue or weakness. Often, chronic fatigue may result from blood loss or anemia caused by undetected polyps or tumors.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to speak with a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Early detection dramatically improves outcomes.
How UMC is Helping El Pasoans Stay Ahead
At University Medical Center of El Paso, the Digestive Health Center is revolutionizing colorectal cancer screening with advanced technology. UMC is proud to be the first and only hospital in the region offering GI Genius, an FDA-cleared AI-powered endoscopy module developed by Medtronic.
GI Genius assists physicians during colonoscopies by analyzing live video feeds and identifying potential polyps or lesions in real time. When the system detects an area of concern, it highlights it with a green box, helping doctors spot abnormalities that could otherwise go unnoticed. According to clinical studies, this technology increases the rate of early detection, giving patients a better chance for prevention and successful treatment.
It is important to monitor your health regularly to prevent, detect, and manage potential risks. At University Medical Center of El Paso (UMC), our health professionals are here to support your overall well-being. Call (915) 521-7979 today to schedule an appointment or visit umcelpaso.org to learn more.
