In recognition of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Northwell Health proudly joined Westchester County leaders in a news conference to advocate for increased colorectal cancer screening and prevention. The event, held on March 5, 2025, was led by Westchester County Executive Kenneth Jenkins and Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler, with Northwell Health’s distinguished experts Dr. Parul J. Shukla and Dr. Christine Molmenti, in attendance to highlight the importance of early detection and prevention.
Dr. Amler opened the event by acknowledging Northwell’s leadership in advancing colorectal cancer screening and prevention efforts, reinforcing a shared commitment to making Westchester the most screened county in New York State.
“Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, yet it is one of the most preventable,” said Dr. Parul J. Shukla, regional chief of colon and rectal surgery for Northwell in Westchester. “We have effective screening methods that can detect pre-cancerous polyps early, preventing cancer before it starts. If you are 45 or older—or have a family history of colorectal cancer—talk to your doctor about getting screened.”
Dr. Shukla emphasized that nearly 150,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer this year, with 50,000 deaths anticipated. “This is a sad statistic when we know that this is a highly preventable disease,” he stated. He reiterated that the recommended screening age was recently lowered from 50 to 45 due to rising cases among younger populations. “The message for the public is clear: 45 is the new 50. Many people are unaware of this change, making awareness and education critical.”
He also highlighted the importance of family history in determining screening timelines. “If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or advanced polyps, you should begin screening at 40 or even earlier. Additionally, individuals diagnosed with larger or concerning polyps should inform their relatives, as their screening should start 10 years before the youngest affected family member’s diagnosis.”
Dr. Christine Molmenti, associate professor and cancer epidemiologist at Northwell Cancer Institute, further emphasized that colorectal cancer screening is not one-size-fits-all, and individuals with a personal or family history of colorectal cancer should consider screening as early as age 40.
“Colonoscopy remains the only screening test that not only detects cancer early but also prevents it by removing precancerous polyps,” said Dr. Molmenti. “There are also several non-invasive, at-home screening options that can help detect cancer early. However, a colonoscopy remains the gold standard because it is both a preventive and diagnostic tool.”
Dr. Molmenti also pointed out that colorectal cancer cases among younger individuals are rising. “One out of ten cases of colorectal cancer are now diagnosed in individuals under 50,” she said. “This underscores the importance of knowing your family history—not just of cancer but of polyps as well—so that you can make informed decisions about when to start screening.”
It is important to stress maintaining a healthy lifestyle, as over 50% of colorectal cancer cases are linked to factors such as diet, physical inactivity, obesity, and tobacco and alcohol use.
Dr. Shukla reinforced the power of coalition-building in tackling colorectal cancer rates. “By bringing together healthcare providers, community leaders, and policymakers, we can expand education efforts, improve access to screenings, and break down barriers,” he said. “If we all work together, we can make colorectal cancer screening routine, accessible, and equitable for all.”
With colorectal cancer rates rising among younger populations, Northwell Health remains committed to increasing awareness, access, and education surrounding colorectal cancer prevention. For more information on colorectal cancer screening and prevention, visit https://bit.ly/colorectal_surgery
