January is cervical health awareness month -- the perfect time to remind women of the importance of continuing routine exams despite the ongoing pandemic.

NEW YORK – A panel of health experts wants U.S. adults to start getting colon cancer screenings at age 45, five years younger than it previously recommended. The group is proposing that adults of average risk for colon cancer be screened from ages 45 to 75. The task force advice on screening doesn't apply to those with colon cancer, polyps or a family history of colon cancer or genetic disorders that increase their risk. Colon cancer, along with rectal cancer, is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., with an estimated 148,000 new cases this year. With the change, doctors should feel comfortable recommending colon cancer screens to younger patients, said the cancer group's Robert Smith.