Colorectal screening saves lives!
According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), Colorectal Cancer is a leading cause of cancer in the United States, but it doesn’t have to be.
Cancer is a disease in which cells grow out of control. Colorectal Cancer usually starts with a small growth called a polyp. Over time, some polyps can turn into cancer if they are not removed.
You may be at risk for colorectal cancer if:
- You or a close relative have had colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps.
- You have Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, or Inflammatory bowel Disease.
- You have a genetic syndrome such as FAP or Lynch Syndrome.
Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer can vary, and some people have no symptoms at all. If there are symptoms, they might include:
- Changes in bowel habits
- Blood in the bowel movement
- Belly cramps, aches, or pains that don’t go away
- Weight loss that is not intentional
Testing consists of several options. The U.S. Preventative Talk Force, a group of medical experts, recommends routine screening for individuals aged 45-75. Younger or older testing is individualized. Some options include:
- Colonoscopy: The entire colon is checked with a thin lighted tube that can safely remove any polyps seen during the exam.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy, but only 1/3 of the lower colon is checked.
- CT or ‘Virtual’ Colonoscopy: An Xray produces an image of the entire colon for a health care provider to analyze.
- Stool tests:
- Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): You follow the collection and mailing or returning instructions and a chemical us used to detect blood in the stool.
- Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): Collected and mailed/returned the same as FOBT, but antibodies are used to detect any blood in the stool.
- Fit-DNA Test: The entire bowel movement is collected and sent to be tested for cancer cells.
Talk with your doctor to find out which lifesaving colorectal screening tests is appropriate for you and how often you should be tested. For more information, go to https://www.cdc.gov/colorectal-cancer/screening