BLOG
5 Things To Know About Colorectal Cancer Screening
5 Things To Know About Colorectal Cancer Screening
Colorectal cancer, often referred to as bowel or colon cancer, is one of the most common cancers worldwide. According to the American Cancer Society, it's estimated that in 2021, there were over 149,000 new cases of colorectal cancer diagnosed in the United States alone. The good news is that colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable, and beatable, especially when detected early through screening. In this blog post, we'll delve into five crucial things you need to know about colorectal cancer screening.
1. Importance of Early Detection
Colorectal cancer often develops from precancerous polyps, which are abnormal growths in the colon or rectum. These polyps can be present for years without causing any symptoms. However, over time, some polyps can become cancerous. Regular screening tests can help detect these polyps early, allowing for their removal before they turn into cancer or identifying cancer in its early stages when it's most treatable. The earlier colorectal cancer is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment and survival.
2. Who Should Get Screened
While colorectal cancer screening is recommended for everyone, it's especially important for individuals aged 45 and older, as the risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with age. However, individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or certain hereditary conditions may need to start screening at a younger age. Additionally, those with symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss should undergo evaluation promptly, regardless of age.
3. Various Screening Methods Available
There are several screening methods available for colorectal cancer, ranging from simple take-home tests to invasive procedures. Common screening tests include:
- Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) or fecal occult blood test (FOBT): These at-home tests detect hidden blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colorectal cancer.
- Colonoscopy: A procedure where a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the rectum to examine the colon and rectum for polyps or cancerous growths.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy but examines only the lower part of the colon.
- CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy): A non-invasive imaging test that uses a CT scanner to produce detailed images of the colon and rectum. Each screening method has its advantages and limitations, and the choice of which test to undergo depends on various factors such as personal preference, medical history, and risk factors.
4. Screening Frequency and Follow-Up
The frequency of colorectal cancer screening depends on the individual's risk factors, screening method, and the results of previous screenings. For instance, individuals with average risk may undergo screening every 5-10 years, while those at higher risk may require more frequent screening. If a screening test detects abnormalities or if symptoms are present, further diagnostic tests or procedures, such as biopsies or colonoscopies, may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis or rule out cancer. It's crucial to follow the recommended screening guidelines and any instructions provided by healthcare professionals for follow-up care.
5. Lifestyle Factors and Prevention
While regular screening is essential for early detection, certain lifestyle factors can also play a significant role in reducing the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, limiting red and processed meats, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and not smoking are all associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer. Additionally, some studies suggest that taking aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, but this should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional due to potential risks and side effects.
conclusion
Colorectal cancer screening is a vital tool in the fight against colorectal cancer. By understanding the importance of early detection, knowing who should get screened, familiarizing oneself with the available screening methods, adhering to recommended screening guidelines, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits, individuals can take proactive steps to reduce their risk of colorectal cancer or detect it at an early, more treatable stage. Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to colorectal cancer, so don't hesitate to discuss screening options with your healthcare provider and take charge of your health.
Loving the information on this web site, you have done outstanding job on the blog posts.