48-year-old colorectal cancer survivor urges people to screen early

Leslie Manners' story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of early cancer screening. At 42, she was diagnosed with stage three rectal cancer after noticing blood in her stool. A colonoscopy revealed a large mass, and further treatment exposed her to the harsh realities of cancer care, including chemotherapy and an ileostomy. The unexpected discovery of stage one thyroid cancer during a PET scan underscored the significance of regular check-ups and screenings. Dr.

Kristina Young, a radiation oncologist, highlights a growing trend of colorectal cancer in adults under 50, urging earlier screenings starting at age 45. Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer should begin screenings 10 years prior to the age their youngest diagnosed family member received their diagnosis. Manners' advocacy for early screening is personal; her own experience prompted her to encourage her sister to get tested, leading to her sister's successful treatment for stage one rectal cancer. Now six years cancer-free, Manners stresses the importance of listening to one's body and prioritizing health.