Colorectal Cancer Screening: What Medical Assistants Need to Know

Colorectal cancer screening is one of the most powerful tools in preventing cancer and improving patient outcomes—yet gaps in awareness and follow-through remain. In this episode, we take a closer look at why colorectal cancer continues to be a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, and how early detection through routine screening can make all the difference.Medical assistants play a vital role in this effort. As a consistent point of contact for patients, they are uniquely positioned to influence screening conversations, provide education, and support patients through the screening process—from intake to follow-up care. This episode highlights the critical ways medical assistants help close screening gaps and contribute to better population health outcomes.Joining us is Durado Brooks, MD, MPH, associate chief medical officer for screening at Exact Sciences. With decades of experience in cancer prevention and early detection—including more than 20 years leading national screening initiatives at the American Cancer Society—Dr. Brooks shares expert insights on increasing screening rates, addressing disparities, and empowering health care teams to save lives through proactive care.Tune in to learn how you, as a medical assistant, can make a meaningful impact in the fight against colorectal cancer.