The message from healthcare providers about colorectal cancer is this: Know about this deadly illness, including the importance of screenings (colonoscopy) as a preventive measure. Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths for men and women in Washington and the third most common cancer in the United States. But it is “highly preventable by getting screened regularly starting at age 50, or sooner if there is a family history of the disease or risk factors,” said Dr. Shalini R Kanneganti, a surgeon specializing in treatment of colon and rectal diseases for CHI Franciscan Health. ““Most early stage colorectal cancer doesn’t produce symptoms. Screening and detection can save lives.”