Colon cancer is one of the most prevalent and potentially deadly forms of cancer worldwide. However, the encouraging news is that when detected early, it is highly treatable and has a significantly improved survival rate. Regular colon cancer screening can help detect the disease at an early stage, enabling prompt intervention and potentially saving your life. In this article, we will delve into the significance of colon cancer screening and explore the various options available to individuals for early detection. Keep in mind that everyone’s situation may be different – always confirm with your doctor what might be an appropriate age to start screening for colon cancer, or other forms of cancer.
Keep in mind that screening recommendations for colon cancer don’t apply if you have symptoms of colon cancer, like weight loss, changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, or dark, tarry stool. In those circumstances, it’s important to consult a doctor right away so that the cause of your symptoms can be investigated thoroughly. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait until it’s too late to get tested – call your doctor today.
The Rising Prevalence of Colon Cancer:
Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, ranks as the third most commonly diagnosed cancer globally. According to the World Health Organization, over 1.8 million new cases were reported in 2020 alone. The incidence of colon cancer is on the rise due to various factors, including sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diets, obesity, smoking, and a lack of physical activity. In 2021, the United States Preventative Services Task Force reduced the recommended age to start colon cancer screening in patients at average risk from 50 to 45, largely in response to an increase in colon cancer being diagnosed in younger individuals. The adoption of regular screening practices can help identify the disease in its early stages and prevent its progression.
Why is Screening Essential?
Colon cancer screening plays a crucial role in reducing your likelihood of dying from colon cancer, and improving your outcome if you are diagnosed with colon cancer. Screening for colon cancer works because many cases of colon cancer begin as noncancerous polyps, which can be detected and removed during a colonoscopy. Identifying and removing these polyps early can prevent them from developing into cancer and catch the disease at an early stage when it is more treatable. In this sense, a colonoscopy doesn’t just detect colon cancer – it can remove precancerous polyps to treat the problem as well. When colon cancer is detected at an early stage, the five-year survival rate is around 90%. However, if the disease has spread to distant organs, the survival rate drops to approximately 14%. Regular screening helps identify cancer before it spreads, significantly improving the chances of survival.
Available Screening Options:
Several effective screening methods are available to detect colon cancer. Every patient is different, and for that reason, I recommend scheduling an appointment with your primary care doctor to talk about when starting screening is right for you. While many people can start screening for colon cancer at age 45, some people, especially those who have a family history of cancer or other gastrointestinal issues, may need to start screening earlier. For patients at average risk of colon cancer, there are a variety of options available to potentially start cancer screening. Here are the common screening methods currently available:
- Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): This non-invasive test detects hidden blood in stool samples. It is typically performed once a year, and can help identify potential signs of colon cancer or pre-cancerous polyps. Certain medications and foods can interfere with the results of this test. If this test is abnormal, additional diagnostic tests, such as a colonoscopy, are needed to determine the cause.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: This procedure involves examining the rectum and lower part of the colon using a flexible, thin tube with a camera. Unlike a colonoscopy, a flexible sigmoidoscopy does not examine the entire colon. It is performed every five years and can identify polyps or early-stage cancers in the lower colon, but it can’t identify colon cancer in the areas of the colon that are not examined.
- Colonoscopy: Considered the gold standard for colon cancer screening, a colonoscopy allows for a thorough examination of the entire colon. During this procedure, a long, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the colon to detect polyps, tumors, or other abnormalities. If abnormal areas are found, they can be removed or sampled for further examination under a microscope. It is generally recommended every ten years, but if a polyp or another abnormal area is found during screening, you may need to have a followup colonoscopy sooner.
- Virtual Colonoscopy: Also known as CT colonography, this procedure uses a CT scan to create detailed images of the colon. It provides a non-invasive alternative to traditional colonoscopy, although it still requires bowel preparation. It also carries a risk of exposure to radiation, which isn’t a concern with other methods of colon cancer screening. Virtual colonoscopy is typically performed every five years. If the test is abnormal, a colonoscopy is usually recommended for further evaluation.
- Stool DNA Testing: This test analyzes stool samples for genetic abnormalities associated with colon cancer. It is recommended every three years. Similar to other non-invasive tests, if abnormal, a colonoscopy is usually recommended.
Keep in mind that an abnormal screening test doesn’t necessarily mean that you have colon cancer, but it does mean that it’s essential to take a closer look with a colonoscopy to find the cause of the abnormal test result.
Getting screened regularly for colon cancer is one of several important ways to stay on top of your health. The range of screening options available means that having a conversation with your doctor is the best way to decide which test is best for you. Remember, regular screenings can be life-saving, so consult with your doctor to determine the most appropriate screening method based on your individual needs.