It is the month of March, and it is the Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and it is a period to promote the significance of colorectal cancer testing. Colorectal cancer is a widely spread disease in the U.S. and at the same time one of the most preventable cancers through proper screening. To the inhabitants of Jersey Village, TX, it is important to know when and how frequently they should undergo screening to detect the disease early enough, treat it and have a better prognosis.
In this blog post, we will discuss all the facts about screening of colorectal cancer: how, what, and when to begin the screenings, what the various formats of screening entail. At the conclusion of this post, you will realize why it is so important to control your health and avoid this disease.
Colorectal cancer (comprising of cancer of the colon or the rectum) usually begins with the development of harmless growths called polyps. These polyps can become cancerous with time. Colorectal cancer may progress without any visible symptoms during its initial stages and thus screening is a necessity.
It is important to have colorectal cancer at its early stages. This is because screening enables physicians to identify cancer at its most curable stages. Early detection of polyps can be done and they can be eliminated before they give rise to cancer. The American Cancer Society claims that colorectal cancer is a cause of cancer related deaths among men and women in the second ranking. Nevertheless, the survival of patients with early diagnosed cancer is more than 90 percent.
The general guidelines for colorectal cancer screening vary based on your age, medical history, and risk factors. Let’s break down the recommended screening intervals:
For people at average risk of colorectal cancer, screening should begin at age 45. This age was recommended by the American Cancer Society in 2018, a change from the previous starting age of 50. Individuals with no family history or other risk factors can continue screening until age 75. After 75, the decision to continue screening should be discussed with your doctor, based on your overall health and life expectancy.
If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, a personal history of polyps, or other risk factors like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or genetic syndromes, you may need to start screening earlier. People with these risk factors should begin screening at age 40 or even earlier, depending on the specific circumstances.
Several factors can impact how often you need to get screened for colorectal cancer. These include:
There are several types of screenings, and your doctor will recommend the one that’s most appropriate for your age, risk level, and health history. Below are the main screening options available:
The most thorough screening, colonoscopies involve using a flexible tube with a camera to examine the entire colon. They are the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening and can detect and remove polyps during the same procedure.
These tests check for blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colorectal cancer. They are less invasive but require follow-up testing if results are positive.
This test examines only the lower portion of the colon and is used less often than a full colonoscopy. It may require a follow-up colonoscopy if polyps or abnormalities are found.
This imaging test uses CT scans to create detailed images of the colon. If it detects issues, a colonoscopy may be needed.
Most colorectal cancer screenings are minimally invasive and can be done on an outpatient basis. Here's what you can expect during each of the common procedures:
Getting screened for colorectal cancer is one of the best ways to protect your health. By following the recommended guidelines and speaking with your doctor about your risk factors, you can make informed decisions about when and how often to get screened.
If you are due for a screening or have concerns about your colorectal health, contact GastroDoxs in Jersey Village, TX today. Our team of experts is here to provide you with comprehensive care and ensure that you stay on top of your health.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
You should begin screening at age 45 if you are at average risk. If you have a family history or other risk factors, you may need to start earlier.
If you are at average risk, a colonoscopy should be done every 10 years.
A colonoscopy is the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening.
No, colorectal cancer often develops without symptoms in the early stages, making regular screening essential.
If your stool test shows blood, your doctor will likely recommend a colonoscopy for further evaluation.
Most screenings are safe, but colonoscopies can have risks such as bleeding or perforation. Your doctor will discuss these with you beforehand.
A colonoscopy typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
Yes, you will need to clean out your colon before the procedure using a prescribed laxative or special diet.
Yes, a colonoscopy can help identify other gastrointestinal issues like Crohn’s disease or ulcers.
Not getting screened for colorectal cancer increases the likelihood of undiagnosed cancer, which can be harder to treat if found late.
