Colonoscopy Screening: Does It Really Matter and Save Lives?
According to research, colon cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States. As per the American Cancer Society, 44,850 new cases of rectal cancer have been found in the states in 2022. There are various ways to detect colon cancer, including colonoscopy screening which is also considered the gold standard.
This is the only type of cancer that can be predicted early and doctors can remove the cancerous polyp. As a result, the chances of death reduce significantly. Still, people are unaware of the danger of colon cancer, so we have discussed the importance of colon cancer screening.
What Is Colon Cancer?
The rectum is the end part of our large intestine and the whole system is referred to as the colon. When normal tissue in the colon transforms into some polyp which eventually becomes cancerous, we call it colon cancer. This type of cancer takes to develop 10-15 years. So, you have enough time to do a colonoscopy screening and remove the polyp safely from your body.
What Are the Symptoms of Colon Cancer?
Pain in the back and abdominal
Blood in the stool
Fatigue
Weight loss
Anemia
Change in bowel habits.
What Is a Colonoscopy?
As we have mentioned earlier, colonoscopy screening is among the most popular cancer-detecting tests. In this method, the doctor inserts a long, thin tube named a colonoscope through the rectum.
The associated video camera and light will help the expert to see the inside clearly. If there is any sign of polyps, they remove it. Don't worry because they provide medication that helps you sleep.
Why Is Colon Cancer Screening Important?
We have mentioned a few factors which are found in various types of research. The following are,
If doctors can detect cancer in the beginning, it can be curable in 90 percent of cases. American Cancer Society also suggests screening at 45 to remove the risk of colon cancer.
Various types of colorectal cancer screening tests are available such as virtual colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, DNA stool tests, double contrast barium enema, and fecal occult blood tests.
In the beginning, the patient has no external symptoms of colon cancer; therefore, only colonoscopy screening can detect that.
Many people think that only men are prone to such cancers, which is entirely false. As per the research, nearly 47 percent of women in the states are diagnosed with colon cancer.
Keep in mind that in 70 percent of cases, the patient has no family history of colon cancer.
Together Let's Fight This!
Many researchers have found that the rate of colon cancer has increased up to 12 percent because of delays in colorectal cancer screenings during a pandemic. There is no way to save from cancer without getting screened. If you want to schedule an appointment, contact Digestive Disease Specialists, INC at (405) 702-1300.
**Disclaimer: This blog content does not offer a doctor's advice and creates no relationship between any patient and care provider.
