INDINANAPOLIS (WISH) — A routine cancer screening led to a shocking diagnosis, now an Indianapolis man warns others to get the same screening.

People over 50 are at a higher risk for colon cancer, but now its becoming more common in younger adults. The American Cancer Society says early detection is key to survival.

Todd Carlson’s routine colonoscopy turned into a life-changing moment for him when he was 47-years-old.

“It’s devastating, not only for me as a patient, but my family as well. It’s a journey for everyone involved,” Carlson said.

The American Cancer Society now recommends regular screenings beginning at age 45, and even earlier if there’s a family history or symptoms. Black people are 20% more likely to get colorectal cancer and 40% more likely to die from it than most other groups.

If caught early, the survival rate is around 90%.

Now a year after his cancer diagnosis, Carlson is sharing his story in the hope that it will save lives.

“Build a team you trust, self-advocate, and focus on being the best possible patient you can be,” he said.

Health experts say colonoscopy screenings can detect and remove pre-cancerous polyps, clumps of cells that form on the lining of the colon, before they become worse.

“It’s a very unique cancer in the sense of if it’s caught early, it’ very treatable. And it’s one of those cancers that you can see physically, which makes it very unique. That’s what really adds to the asset of having this technology in terms of colonoscopies and all that other stuff,” Carlson said.

Thankfully, Carlson caught his cancer early. After months of chemotherapy and treatment, he’s now nearing the end of his fight with cancer with a positive prognosis. Carlson says he’s feeling better than ever, noting that it’s crucial to remain positive and keep a routine.

“I walked. I still walked. It sounds kind of nerdy but I really just needed that advice. I need something to focus on outside of the realities, and that’s what I did,” Carlson said.

The American Cancer Society suggests getting regular exercise, eating lots of fruits, veggies, and whole grains, and to avoid smoking or drinking alcohol to reduce your risk for colon cancer.