Dr. Maseray Kamara Is On A Mission To Change Colorectal Health

Source: Photos provided by Nigel Jackson / Nigel Jackson

Dr. Maseray Kamara is more than a highly skilled, board-certified general and colorectal surgeon—she’s a passionate advocate for health literacy and early prevention. Specializing in robotic surgery and anorectal disease, Dr. Kamara is on a mission to save lives both in the operating room and beyond. As March marks National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, she is amplifying the conversation around colorectal health, and breaking down complex medical topics to empower communities with knowledge that can save lives.

As a first-generation Sierra Leonean American, Dr. Kamara is deeply committed to dismantling the stigma surrounding colorectal health, particularly within Black and brown communities, where disparities in screening and treatment persist. Through community engagement, social media, and medical journalism, she’s making critical health information more accessible and ensuring that people understand the importance of early detection.

In this MadameNoire exclusive, Dr. Kamara shares vital information about the risks, symptoms, and systemic barriers contributing to colorectal cancer’s prevalence—while offering solutions to bridge the healthcare gap and improve outcomes for all.

MadameNoire: What inspired you to pursue a career in colorectal surgery?

Dr. Maseray Kamara: Initially, I planned to become a cardiologist, but during medical school, I fell in love with the operating room. The ability to identify a problem, address it surgically, and see direct results was incredibly appealing. My interest in public health also played a role. Growing up, I witnessed healthcare disparities both in Sierra Leone through my parents’ experiences and here in the U.S. Seeing my family members struggle with access to care reinforced my desire to educate and advocate for patients. Colorectal surgery allows me to combine public health with surgical intervention—I not only operate but also educate communities about colorectal health, cancer prevention, and overall wellness.

What advice do you have for aspiring doctors, especially Black women entering the field?

For aspiring doctors, especially young Black women, I emphasize the importance of mentorship. You’re not alone in your journey. Find mentors who can guide you. In today’s digital world, social media is a powerful networking tool—some of my mentors responded to cold LinkedIn messages. Learning from those who have paved the way helps navigate challenges and access the ‘playbook of success’ in medicine.

March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. When should men and women begin cancer screenings, and why is timely screening so critical?

Screening should start at age 45. It used to be 50, but we’ve seen an increase in colorectal cancer cases among younger adults. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. for both men and women. However, if detected early, it is highly treatable. Regular screenings can catch precancerous polyps before they develop into cancer. Delaying screenings increases the risk of late-stage diagnosis, making treatment more difficult. Awareness and proactive healthcare decisions save lives.

Is colorectal cancer genetic? And what are the symptoms, if any?

Great question. Colorectal cancer is multifactorial. Yes, some people have a genetic predisposition, meaning it runs in their family. That’s why it’s important to have conversations about family medical history. If you’re at higher risk, screening should start before age 45. But aside from genetics, environmental and lifestyle factors also play a role.

As for symptoms, the key red flags are:

Blood in your stool – Many dismiss this as hemorrhoids, but bright red, maroon, or black stools should be evaluated.
Changes in bowel habits – If your stool becomes thin or pencil-like, or if you experience constipation after having regular bowel movements, this could indicate a blockage.
Unintentional weight loss – If you’re losing weight without trying, this needs medical attention.

If you notice any of these signs, talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

How do we normalize conversations about bowel health and make topics like digestion and screenings less taboo?

Simply by talking about it. Bowel movements are a direct reflection of gut health. Everyone poops—there’s no reason for embarrassment. The more we discuss it, the more comfortable people become with prioritizing their health and recognizing warning signs early.

What are the risks of not getting screened?

The biggest risk is missing precancerous polyps. If detected early, these can be removed before they develop into cancer. When caught in the early stages, before spreading to lymph nodes or other organs, treatment outcomes are significantly better. Late-stage diagnosis leads to poorer outcomes and more aggressive treatments.

Black and brown communities are disproportionately affected by colorectal cancer. Can you share statistics and insights into why this disparity exists?

African Americans are 20 percent more likely to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer and 40 percent more likely to die from it. This is due to multiple factors:

Access to healthcare – Many face financial or logistical barriers to preventive care.
Medical mistrust – Historical injustices have created a deep-rooted skepticism of the healthcare system.
Delayed screenings – Fear of procedures like colonoscopies leads some to avoid testing altogether.

To those hesitant about colonoscopies, I always emphasize that there are alternative screening methods like Cologuard, which uses stool samples to detect abnormalities.

What role do systemic barriers and cultural stigmas play in health outcomes for Black and brown patients?

Systemic barriers such as lack of healthcare access, provider bias, and inadequate education about preventive care all contribute to poorer outcomes. Culturally, many in our communities avoid discussing health issues, especially those related to the colon and rectum. Breaking the stigma and encouraging open conversations can be lifesaving.

We also need more Black and brown healthcare providers who understand these cultural nuances and can build trust within our communities. My mission is to increase awareness, provide education, and help people understand that early screening saves lives.

Nutrition and lifestyle play a significant role in health. What key dietary habits should people adopt to lower their risk of colorectal cancer?

Let’s start with fiber. The American diet is severely lacking in fiber. Think of stool as waste—the body has already absorbed the nutrients and water it needs. Waste passing through the colon should be cleared smoothly to avoid prolonged exposure to toxins. Fiber bulks stool, allowing for regular bowel movements and reducing the risk of toxic buildup in the colon. Everyone needs 25 to 35 grams of fiber daily, which can be found in fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, and whole grains.

Besides diet, what lifestyle changes contribute to a healthy colon?

Dr. Maseray Kamara: Hydration, exercise, and minimizing processed foods are key. Fiber acts like a sponge, so without enough water—about 60 to 80 ounces daily—stool becomes hard and difficult to pass. Exercise is crucial; movement stimulates bowel movements. Even a daily walk can help. Additionally, limit red meat and processed foods, as they contain carcinogens linked to cancer. Enjoy them in moderation.

You’ve dedicated part of your career to medical journalism and health literacy. How does storytelling improve health outcomes, particularly in underserved communities?

I focus on making health information accessible, especially through social media. My Instagram (@DrKamara) shares insights on colorectal and gut health in an engaging way. People receive health information from many sources, not all credible. My goal is to provide evidence-based, professional guidance. Meeting people where they are—whether through social media, churches, or nursing homes—ensures they feel empowered by health knowledge rather than overwhelmed by the healthcare system.

Categories: Exclusives