Published on Feb. 16, 2026
Colorectal cancer is the leading cancer diagnosis in the United States. Due to rising rates among younger adults, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends starting routine colonoscopies at age 45, lowered from the previous guideline of age 50.
MemorialCare Cancer Institute stresses the importance of regular screening colonoscopies—the gold standard in colorectal cancer prevention. While the prep for colonoscopy isn’t ideal, the few hours of inconvenience is worth the peace of mind. If a polyp is found, it is then biopsied and tested immediately. With early detection it gives patients a crucial head start, making treatment more effective.
“A timely colonoscopy can prevent cancer by removing polyps before they become dangerous,” said Ketan Thanki, M.D., colorectal surgeon, MemorialCare Cancer Institute, Long Beach Medical Center. “When a polyp is discovered during a colonoscopy, it can be biopsied immediately, giving patients answers sooner and allowing treatment to begin earlier.”
MemorialCare Cancer Institute’s Fountain Valley location at Orange Coast Medical Center, offers advanced diagnostic options often only found at major regional and academic hospitals, like endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). This technology combines ultrasound and endoscopy to provide clearer views of organs and nearby structures, determining whether cancer has spread to lymph nodes.
“With EUS and other techniques, we can diagnose, stage, and treat digestive diseases with fewer complications and quicker recovery,” said Jose Aranez, M.D., medical director, advanced endoscopy, Orange Coast Medical Center. “These technologies are vital in colorectal cancer, as determining disease extent guides treatment and may help patients avoid major surgery.”
If surgery is needed, patients can feel confident knowing that advanced colorectal surgical techniques have improved outcomes. MemorialCare recently added the da Vinci 5 Surgical System at all its locations for minimally invasive surgery, including colorectal cancer.
“This allows for greater precision and provides additional safeguards when operating in delicate areas,” said Katherine Stern, M.D., colorectal surgeon, MemorialCare Cancer Institute, Saddleback Medical Center.
In a community surrounded by large regional and academic hospitals, MemorialCare Cancer Institute offers something truly unique, a strong sense of community woven into high-tech, clinical treatment pathways. Patients benefit from clinical trials, advanced technology, leading treatment protocols, and nationally recognized specialists, but with the softness and compassion of a community hospital health system.
What sets MemorialCare apart is the united coordination behind its care, delivering high-quality, compassionate treatment close to home. Using initiatives like the Tempus TIME Trial brings national clinical trials into MemorialCare hospitals. Physicians also know each patient’s name, their families, and continue celebrating major life events long after treatment ends and recovery begins.
Along with clinical expertise, MemorialCare Cancer Institute values mental and emotional well‑being, because the mind and body should never be separated in care. Research shows that patients who feel prepared for their cancer journey experience a smoother treatment process, which is why programs like prehabilitation, yoga, art therapy, onco‑ballet, and support groups are essential.
As Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month highlights early detection, MemorialCare physicians urge the community about proactive screenings.