Colorectal Cancer Prevention: Screening is Key
Common. Preventable. Curable. Colorectal cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in men and women. It affects more than 150,000 people in the United States every year. The numbers are rising in younger individuals. Many patients are diagnosed without any related symptoms. Advanced cases lead to blood in the stools, abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits (constipation and/or diarrhea) and weight loss.
Colon Cancer Prevention
Fortunately, the vast majority of cases (greater than 90%) can be prevented through screening. Screening tests are performed to identify precancerous polyps (growth of tissue along the inner lining of your colon) or cancers in their earliest stages before a patient exhibits signs. There are several available tests:
- Stool cards that detect blood
- Home kits that detect cancer cells
- Colonoscopy (the most common test)
The benefit of colonoscopy is that it allows the doctor to identify and remove polyps before they have a chance to turn into cancer.
Screening for colorectal cancer begins at age 50. But with increasing incidence in younger patients, physicians now recommend screening at age 45 and sometimes earlier for high-risk patients who have a family history of colorectal cancer. In addition, we recommend regular testing for patients who have concerning symptoms that persist, regardless of age.
Unfortunately, many fears and misconceptions around screening exist. Therefore, physicians only have the opportunity to screen about half of the at-risk individuals in the U.S. You may have a fear of the screening prep, the test itself, results, cost or time away from work. Many patients haven’t been educated on the importance or benefits of screening.
What to Expect During Your Screening
A colonoscopy is a common procedure used to look for the cause of problems or changes in your bowel (intestine). It can find cancer at its earliest stages when it’s easier to treat. It’s important to talk with your provider about the proper prep you’ll need to do before your procedure. This usually consists of a liquid diet to help clear out your colon.
During the screening process, physicians use a special, flexible tool called a colonoscope to look for any signs of polyps. If present, your provider will use the colonoscope to remove the polyp and send it for testing.
Recovery typically lasts about a day. It’s important to follow any post-procedure instructions from your doctor, such as resting and drinking fluids. In about one to two weeks, your provider will discuss your screening results and treatment options, if needed.
You can learn more about colonoscopy by watching this informational video here.
Education = Prevention
Colorectal cancer is both preventable and extremely curable in its earliest stages. Our opportunity begins with knowledge — understanding the importance of getting screened despite not having symptoms and recognizing what symptoms to monitor and act on.
Education and treatment begin with a partnership between you and your doctor. If you’re 45 and haven’t been screened, call your primary care doctor today and make an appointment. Improving screening rates and preventing cancer starts with education and self-advocacy. As Benjamin Franklin reminded us back in the 1700s, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
Guest Blogger: Justin Maykel, MD, Chief, Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery
