Each year, more than 150,000 Americans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, and more than one-third of those individuals will die from the disease. The good news is that colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer when it is detected early. That’s why staying on schedule with recommended colonoscopy screenings is essential.
The American Cancer Society recommends adults at average risk for colorectal cancer begin getting their colonoscopies at age 45. Individuals at higher risk should begin screening even earlier. Those higher risk factors include having a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with a history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or other colon-related diseases.
“It is crucial to get screened on time,” said Kayla Smith, Family Nurse Practitioner at Med Center Health Hematology & Oncology. “When polyps are found early, treatment can be straightforward. We can remove the polyp or, in some cases, a portion of the colon. However, if patients wait until symptoms appear, the disease may have already progressed to cancer. Our goal is to prevent that, which is why screenings are so important.”
Colorectal cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented through screening. During a colonoscopy, a general surgeon or gastroenterologist can identify and remove polyps – often before they become cancerous. Waiting until symptoms develop can significantly reduce treatment options and may result in poorer outcomes.
“Common warning signs of colorectal cancer include blood in the stool, unexplained changes in weight, and changes in bowel patterns,” said Kayla Smith. “There is a common misconception that if you don’t have symptoms, screening isn’t necessary. In reality, screening is essential precisely because it makes it possible for us to detect cancer early and monitor or remove polyps that require intervention.”
A colonoscopy is the gold standard and the most effective way to detect colon cancer. The procedure allows physicians to examine the entire colon and remove or biopsy any suspicious growths. Some individuals hesitate due to the preparation required, but Dr. Daniel Davis, General Surgeon at Med Center Health, says the process and procedure are well worth your time.
“The bowel preparation the day before is often the least appealing part,” said Davis. “However, the procedure itself is quick and typically takes 20 to 30 minutes, followed by a short recovery period as the anesthesia wears off. About an hour of your time can significantly reduce your risk of developing colorectal cancer.”
Taking this simple preventive step can make a life-saving difference. To learn more or schedule your colonoscopy, visit: https://medcenterhealth.org/condition/colon-cancer/.
-submitted by Med Center Health
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