Colon Cancer and Colonoscopy: Everything You Must Know
According to research, colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer in the world. The reason is most people are unaware of the danger and symptoms of colon cancer. There are various colon cancer screenings to detect such illnesses and even prevent them. For example, colonoscopy screening identifies cancer growth and removes the tumor from the area.
If individuals perform it in the beginning, they can save their life. Continue reading this article to learn the symptoms of colon cancer, the risk factors, and why people should do a colonoscopy. Read on.
What Do Statistics Say?
The American Cancer Society has estimated 106,970 patients are diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2023 in the United States. Research shows that more than 50,000 Americans may die from colorectal cancer in 2023.
Early detection can prevent this problem and save people’s lives. Researchers show that fecal screening extends the life expectancy of people aged 50 to 54 years up to 51 days. Colonoscopy screening can save 28 per 1,000 people.
What are the Signs of Colon Cancer?
Very dark blood in the stool.
Notice changes in bowel habits.
Sudden weight loss.
Notice diarrhea and constipation.
Constant tiredness or fatigue.
Experience discomfort such as bloating, fullness in the abdomen.
Thinner stools than normal.
What are the Risk Factors in this Case?
A family history of colorectal cancer.
Personal history of specific types of polyps.
History of getting radiation to the pelvic area to treat a prior cancer.
Previous history of inflammatory bowel disease.
Frequently eating lots of processed meat.
Lack of necessary exercise.
Not consuming fruits and vegetables.
Why is Colonoscopy Screening Important?
Colon cancer screening, such as colonoscopy, is essential because it can detect and remove cancerous polyps. Getting screened earlier can save your life. Doctors recommend colposcopy at the age of 45.
Generally, colon cancer develops from a polyp in the abdominal area. This type of screening can remove the polyps in the beginning. There is no doubt that health is one of the most significant assets in our lives. By doing the screening, you can protect your health from this life-threatening disease.
What are the Types of Colorectal Cancer Screenings?
There are various types of tests available that can detect colon cancer. The following are,
Stool-based Tests
Fecal Immunochemical Test - You should do it every year.
Guaiac-based Fecal Occult Blood Test – Yearly test is necessary.
Multi-targeted Stool DNA Test - You should do it every three years.
Visual Exam
Colonoscopy - It gets the reference as the gold standard of screening. Doing it every ten years is sufficient.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy - You should do it every five years.
CT Colonography - In every five years.
When Should You Opt for Colonoscopy Screening?
As per the American Cancer Society, the colonoscopy screening age is 45. You should follow this guideline if you are at average risk for colorectal cancer. But people at 75 years of age should consult with their gastroenterologists to know whether they are suitable candidates for such screening.
Get Screened Today!
You should be worried about colon cancer because it can be life-threatening if you overlook it for too long. Remember that no single reason is responsible for such problems; family history and other causes contribute to this condition.
Research shows that the death rate reduces by six percent if individuals undergo colonoscopy screening at 45. Contact us at Digestive Disease Specialists, INC, to know more about this test.
**Disclaimer: This blog content does not offer a doctor's advice and creates no relationship between any patient and care provider.
