Seeing Beyond the Eyes: Colon Cancer Awareness Month and the Role of Eye Exams

Purple ribbon; Colon Cancer Awareness Month March.

Photo by gfxhill

As we embrace March’s arrival with the promise of spring, health awareness takes center stage, spotlighting both the blossoming season and crucial health initiatives. Colon Cancer Awareness Month, observed in March, urges us to prioritize prevention, early detection, and treatment of colon cancer. Despite its seemingly unrelated nature, the intriguing link between systemic health and our eyes deserves exploration.

While colon cancer doesn’t directly impact eye health, the eyes act as windows into our overall well-being, unveiling potential signs of systemic conditions. This March, as we champion colon health, it’s fascinating to discover that routine eye exams can contribute to the early diagnosis of this formidable adversary. Let’s delve into the interconnected world of health awareness and understand the pivotal role eye exams play in detecting conditions that extend beyond what meets the eye. Zenni encourages you to prioritize not only your vision but also your overall health during this awareness month and beyond.

Our eyes are intricate structures interconnected with the rest of our body. Changes in blood vessels, optic nerves, and other eye components can signal underlying health issues. This is where eye exams become more than just a check for visual acuity. During a comprehensive eye examination, optometrists can detect signs of systemic diseases, including certain types of cancer.

Person undergoing an eye exam using a slit lamp biomicroscope.

Photo by Ksenia Chernaya

Understanding Colon Cancer:

Colon cancer refers to cancer that begins in the colon or rectum, and it ranks as the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment, making awareness campaigns like Colon Cancer Awareness Month pivotal in encouraging timely screenings and preventive measures.

Eye Exams and Systemic Health:

Beyond assessing your vision, eye exams can unveil signs of various health conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, and yes, even colon cancer. Changes in blood vessels or the appearance of growths could be indicators that prompt further investigation into your overall health. While eye exams aren’t a direct diagnostic tool for colon cancer, they can be a part of the comprehensive approach to identifying health concerns.

Cyclists wearing helmets and sunglasses riding side by side.

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The Importance of Regular Check-ups:

Regular eye check-ups, combined with other routine health screenings, create a well-balanced approach to wellness. These exams not only allow for the detection of vision issues but also serve as a proactive measure to identify potential systemic health problems early on. By addressing health concerns in their initial stages, individuals can pursue timely medical interventions and increase the likelihood of successful outcomes.

Zenni’s Commitment to Health and Wellness:

At Zenni, we believe in the power of vision beyond eyewear. While our primary focus is providing affordable, stylish eyewear to enhance your visual experience, we also recognize the broader impact of eye health on your overall well-being. As Colon Cancer Awareness Month unfolds, we encourage you not only to prioritize your eye health with regular check-ups but also to stay informed about comprehensive health screenings that contribute to your overall wellness.

Man and child both wearing glasses and smiling while walking on a beach.

As we raise awareness for colon cancer this March, let’s acknowledge the interconnectedness of our body’s systems. Regular eye exams serve as a valuable component in maintaining optimal health, allowing us to see beyond the eyes and into the realm of overall wellness. This March, Zenni encourages you to schedule your eye exam, stay informed, and let’s work together towards a healthier, more vibrant future. Prioritize not only your vision but also your comprehensive well-being, and explore Zenni’s commitment to holistic health through informative resources and a diverse range of eyewear options.

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Photograph of Alyssa Buchanan

Alyssa Buchanan

Dr. Alyssa Buchanan is an optometrist based in Lubbock, Texas. She received her doctorate from Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California, and has practiced in various settings including Fort Cavazos where she provided eye care for deploying soldiers. Dr. Buchanan has since received her Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration and continues to strive to provide top-notch eyecare and make a meaningful impact in the eyecare industry.