Colorectal Cancer Screening: Is It Time?
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, so we’re talking about colon screenings this month.
Excluding the types of skin cancer, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed and the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. The American Cancer Society also reports that the five-year survival rate for colorectal cancer is 91% when found early, making it a treatable cancer at that stage.
Unfortunately, only about 40% of colorectal cancers are found at an early stage. This is why being vigilant about screening is so important. Read further to learn more about when you should be getting screened, the different tests available and some tips to help prevent colon cancer.
Colorectal Cancer Screening Guidelines
People with an average risk for colorectal cancer should begin screening at 45 years of age. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends regular screenings for all adults ages 45 to 75.
People with a higher risk for colorectal cancer may need to be screened sooner. Some of those increased risks include:
- A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, polyps or colorectal cancer.
- A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
- Having a genetic syndrome related to colorectal cancer, such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome).
The Task Force’s screening recommendations include stool tests, colonoscopy, CT colonography and flexible sigmoidoscopy.
Types Of Colorectal Cancer Screenings
Several options are available when it comes to screening for colon cancer. The right option for you depends on your risk level, medical history and personal preference.
- Stool Tests
- Guaiac-Based Fecal Occult Blood Test (gFOBT): recommended once per year.
- Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): recommended once per year.
- FIT-DNA Test: recommended once every three years.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure using a thin tube to check the lower part of the colon. This test should be done every five years or every 10 years with a FIT test every year.
- Colonoscopy: Similar to a sigmoidoscopy, this test allows your doctor to check the lining of your entire colon using a thin, flexible tube. The recommended screening interval is every 10 years.
- CT Colonography: This is a virtual colonoscopy using computer and X-ray technology to provide imaging of the colon. This should be undertaken every five years.
Reducing Your Colorectal Cancer Risk
Keeping up with regular screenings plays a big part in colorectal cancer prevention. However, there are other lifestyle choices you can make to help prevent colorectal cancer.
- Eat a healthy, whole-foods diet that minimizes or avoids processed and red meats.
- Get plenty of exercise, and avoid prolonged sitting.
- Don’t smoke, or quit smoking if you do smoke.
- Lose weight if you are overweight.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
If you experience any abnormal symptoms (such as a change in bowel habits, rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss), be sure to see your doctor promptly.
GastroIntestinal Specialists, A.M.C. is the largest independent gastroenterology group in Northwest Louisiana. Our board-certified physicians have more than 150 years of combined experience in providing quality care that you can trust. To schedule an appointment, visit gis.md or call (318) 631-9121.