Colorectal (colon) cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the United States. It’s also one of the most treatable, even curable, when detected early. Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month (March) serves as a reminder regarding the importance of colon cancer screening.
Our internal medicine physician, Kadie E. Leach, MD, in Lanham, Maryland, specializes in adult primary care, including managing and preventing chronic disease through routine health and cancer screenings.
Here's her overview of some key points regarding the updated colorectal cancer screening guidelines.
The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk of colorectal cancer begin screening at age 45.
However, Dr. Leach may recommend you start screenings sooner if you have risk factors such as:
You may also benefit from a screening study if you develop blood in the stool, frequent diarrhea, or other signs and symptoms of colon issues. Notably, colon cancer is often asymptomatic until the cancer has advanced.
The frequency of screening depends on the testing method used and ongoing health factors, ranging from annually to once every 10 years.
For instance, colonoscopies are generally recommended every 5-10 years if no abnormalities are noted on the most recent study and your risk factors are low. However, fecal blood tests are typically repeated annually.
The best type of colorectal cancer screening can vary depending on age, medical history, risk factors, and personal preferences. Some standard screening methods include:
This procedure involves examining the entire colon and rectum using a flexible tube with a camera. It’s considered the gold standard of colorectal cancer screening and prevention since your provider can identify and remove suspicious polyps or abnormal growths during the study.
This test checks for hidden (occult) blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps. It is a noninvasive test and can be done at home with a kit provided by a health care provider.
Like FOBT, FIT also detects blood in the stool but is more specific to human blood and does not require dietary restrictions.
This procedure involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the lower part of the colon to examine for polyps or signs of cancer. It examines only a portion of the colon, unlike colonoscopy.
This noninvasive imaging test uses a CT scanner to create detailed images of the colon. It can detect polyps and other abnormalities, but a follow-up colonoscopy may be needed for their removal if polyps are found.
Dr. Leach considers your individual risk factors before recommending the type and frequency of colon cancer screening.
Most importantly, colorectal cancer is highly preventable and treatable when detected early. Screening can help identify precancerous polyps or early-stage cancers before they advance.
Learn more about colorectal cancer screening and other preventive health care strategies. Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Leach today by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.
