Fair warning: This will be an uncomfortable but necessary discussion about an uncomfortable but necessary procedure.

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Yes, there is such a thing. Not sure what March did to deserve such a distinction.

But while we might wince and squirm at the topic, designating such a month is meant to remind people that avoiding colorectal checks can have far worse consequences.

Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths among U.S. men and third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women. The American Cancer Society estimates Michigan this year will see 4,660 new cases of colorectal cancer and 1,680 deaths due to the disease.

Waiting until something seems amiss is waiting too long. Many cases of colorectal cancer have no symptoms, especially early on, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Which is why early screening is so crucial, the MDHHS stressed. Doctors can find and remove polyps in the colon during screenings before they become cancerous.

“Adults age 50 and older should be regularly screened for colorectal cancer,” said Dr. Eden Wells, chief medical executive with the MDHHS. “Unfortunately, many people aren’t getting tested because they don’t believe they are at risk or they aren’t aware of the different testing or screening options.”

Colorectal cancer risk increases after age 50. However, anyone who has a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps should talk with their doctor about starting testing before age 50.

In addition to colonoscopies, several other inexpensive screening options are available, including simple, affordable take-home tests, the MDHHS advised. Many health insurance plans, including the Healthy Michigan Plan, cover lifesaving preventive tests.

To learn more about resources for uninsured residents or about testing and prevention, go to MDHHS’s cancer prevention and control website.

Yes, the screening procedures can be uncomfortable, but necessary.

“The importance of early detection cannot be overstated,” Wells said. “Make it a priority to discuss the different testing options, including at-home tests, with your provider.”