When Should I Get Screened For Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer, or colorectal cancer, is cancer that develops in the large
intestine (colon) or the rectum. Colon Cancer screenings have one goal: to
prevent deaths from colon cancer. These tests can help to identify cancers
at an early and possibly a treatable stage. 
All adults over the age of 50 should undergo a colon cancer screening. There
are numerous tests that are currently available, and each has its advantages
and disadvantages. The test that is right for you depends upon your
preferences and your risk of developing colon cancer. It's critical to
understand the importance of colon cancer screening.
Colorectal cancers usually develop from a precancerous polyp. Polyps are
growths that appear from the lining of the colon. They are visible when the
bowel is examined by endoscopy (colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy). The colon
cancer-screening test works by detecting polyps or early-stage cancers
followed by removal of the malformation. Regular screenings for removing
polyps can reduce the risk of developing colon cancer by up to 90 percent
through colonoscopy.
It is important to know the risk factors for colon cancer. Several
characteristics increase the risk of colorectal cancer. They include:
- Family History of Colorectal Cancer – If an immediate family member has had colorectal cancer, your chance increases.
- Prior Colorectal Cancer of Polyps – Patients who previously had colorectal cancer have an increased risk of developing a new colorectal cancer. Especially those who had cancer before the age of 60. Increasing Age –
- The average person has a 5 percent chance of developing colon cancer, but 90 percent of these cancers occur in patients older than 50 years of age.
- Lifestyle Factors – There are several habits that can be broke to decrease the risk of developing colon cancer. These bad habits include A diet high in fat and red meat and low in fiber, an inactive lifestyle, cigarette smoking, alcohol use, and obesity.
Depending on your risk factors, there are many different types of screening
tests that can be used for colorectal cancer screenings.
- Colonoscopy – allows a physician to see the lining of the rectum and the entire colon.
- Sigmoidoscopy – allows a physician to directly view the lining of the rectum and the lower part of the colon.
- CT Colonography – a test that uses a CT scanner to take images of the entire bowel.
- Stool Tests – colorectal cancers often release microscopic amounts of blood and abnormal DNA into the stool. Stool tests can reveal blood or irregular DNA makers.
- Fecal Occult Blood Test and Sigmoidoscopy – a combined screening with a fecal occult blood test and sigmoidoscopy. This screening strategy may be more effective than either test done alone.
If your family has a history of colon cancer, or you are over the age of 50,
it’s time to give us a call and stay ahead of the game.