Colonoscopy screening is the key to early detection
Oct. 22—Many people often shudder when their doctor informs them it's time for a screening colonoscopy. But regular screening, beginning at age 45 for people with average risk factors, is the key to preventing colorectal cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.
Excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States, per the ACS. The good news is that if colon cancer is detected before it spreads, the five-year survival rate is about 91%, according to the ACS. If it's not caught before the cancer spreads to other organs, the survival rate dips to about 14%.
"There are often no signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer — that's why it's so important to get screened," said Shahzad Syed, M.D., gastroenterologist on the medical staff at Navarro Regional Hospital. "A colonoscopy takes about one hour and during this time, physicians can identify, remove and test anything abnormal, such as a polyp, which is how most colorectal cancers begin." People over age 45 have the highest risk of colorectal cancer. You may also be at higher risk if you are African American, smoke or have a family history of colorectal cancer.
"Your doctor can advise you about the right time to begin, as well as testing frequency, but industry guidelines suggest that a repeat screening should be conducted every 10 years for adults with average risk. People at higher risk of developing colorectal cancer may need to be tested earlier than age 45 and more frequently, as determined by your physician," Dr. Syed said.
Everyone can take these healthy steps to help prevent colorectal cancer:
—Get screened starting at age 45 — earlier if you have above average risk factors.
—Encourage your family members and friends over age 45 to get screened.
—Quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke.
—Get plenty of physical activity and eat healthy.
Depending on your age, a colonoscopy screening may be a covered wellness test under your insurance plan, and most plans cover a colonoscopy completely as a follow-up test or diagnostic tool. Check with your insurance provider and your doctor's office for help scheduling a screening exam. If you need a doctor, call 903-872-DOCS.
This article was submitted by Navarro Regional Hospital.
