Colon Cancer Screenings and Early Detection

Excluding skin cancer, colorectal is the third most common cancer in the United States (among both men and women), and the second most common cause of cancer deaths each year. While these statistics are scary, the number of deaths per year (approximately 100,000) is slowly dropping. This is due in large part to education as well as early prevention through regular colorectal screenings.

As the name implies, colorectal cancer affects the rectum, colon or both.  A colonoscopy is the most reliable screening available to detect this form of cancer. During a colonoscopy, a gastric doctor examines the lining of your entire colon to locate any polyps or tumors. It can take up to 15 years for a polyp to develop into colorectal cancer. This is why regular screening is so important.

A GI doctor can help prevent many types of colorectal cancer by finding and removing polyps before they have the chance to grow into cancer. Furthermore screenings are the best way to find this type of cancer early before it has an opportunity to spread. When found early, the 5-year relative survival rate is about 90%; however, only 4 out of 10 colorectal cancers are found early. When cancer spreads outside the colon or rectum the survival rates are significantly lower.

Colonoscopies should be conducted per your doctor’s recommendation starting at age 50.  Individuals with a family history or other risk factors may start screenings before age 50.  A colonoscopy is a relatively simple, low-risk procedure that is generally performed on an outpatient basis.  Here is what you can expect during this procedure:

• You will be provided at-home instructions and medications that help empty the bowels before the procedure takes place.
• After receiving medication to help you relax, the GI doctor performs the procedure by inserting a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope into your colon through the rectum.
• The tiny video camera in the tube sends images to a video monitor so the gastric doctor can see any abnormalities.
• If the doctor sees and questionable tissue, he can remove it during the procedure and send it for testing.

If you are concerned about your colon health, contact Dr. Justin McCarthy at (806) 761-0722 or visit his Facebook page to learn more about specialized gastroenterology care.

Sources:

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colon-cancer/diagnosis-treatment/diagnosis/dxc-20188255?mc_id=google&campaign=294429641&geo=9053103&kw=%2Bcolon%20%2Bcancer%20%2Bdetection&ad=107670105281&network=s&sitetarget=&adgroup=21735170561&extension=&target=kwd-20147992030&matchtype=b&device=c&account=1733789621&placementsite=enterprise&gclid=CLanoe7vzcwCFQetaQodM4kJyQ