Prevention is Key: the Benefits of a Colonoscopy

3/20/2023

When we think of cancer prevention, we typically think of those we hear the most about, such as breast cancer or lung cancer. One of the most common cancers is actually colon cancer: cancer of the large intestine and lower part of the digestive system. It is the fourth most common cancer in the U.S. and the second leading cause of cancer death – and early detection dramatically increases the survival rate.

More than 151,000 new cases of colon cancer have been diagnosed in the U.S.in the past year, according to the National Cancer Institute. If detected before it spreads, the five-year survival rate is about 90 percent – but if not caught before this point, the survival rate dips to just 10 percent.

The exact causes of colon cancer are unknown. One of the most important preventive steps is to get a colonoscopy, a screening test to detect any signs of cancer. A colonoscopy is a procedure to see inside the colon and rectum. Used as either a screening test or a diagnostic tool, it can help your doctor investigate unusual symptoms such as unexplained changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and weight loss.

It’s estimated that as many as 60 percent of colon cancer deaths could be prevented if all men and women ages 45 and up received routine colonoscopy screenings.

A colonoscopy is performed using a long, thin, flexible tube, which is inserted through the rectum into the lower digestive tract, while the patient is sedated or asleep. The tube is equipped with a light and a tiny camera that transmits images of the patient’s intestinal lining to a computer screen located at the bedside. This enhanced view allows the doctor to see inflamed tissue and any abnormal growths.

If polyps (growths) are found during the exam, they are quickly and painlessly removed at that time, and later tested in a laboratory for signs of cancer. Polyps are common in adults, and usually harmless. However, most colorectal cancer begins as a polyp, so removing polyps early is an effective prevention method. Your doctor can also take samples from abnormal-looking tissues – a biopsy – during the colonoscopy, so that any suspicious areas can be examined for signs of disease and treated, if necessary.

The American Cancer Society recommends a routine colonoscopy screening for all adult men and women beginning at age 45, or earlier, if you have specific risk factors. Your doctor can provide guidance about the right time to begin and the frequency of testing, but industry guidelines suggest that a repeat screening be conducted every 10 years for adults with normal risk.

Your risk level for colon cancer varies according to your age, gender and ethnic background, as well as your overall health and lifestyle. Factors that affect your risk level include:

• Advancing age (over age 45)
• Male gender
• African American ethnic status
• A family or personal history of polyps (growths inside the rectum or colon), or colorectal cancer
• A high-fat diet
• Certain digestive diseases, such as diabetes, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis

Regional Physician Services Gastroenterology makes screening for colorectal cancer easy. Their Open Access Screening Colonoscopy Program is a no-hassle, patient-centered approach to colorectal cancer screening. Patients will work with their primary care provider to directly schedule their colonoscopy. In addition, most insurances will cover this preventive service 100 percent.

About the Author:
A gastroenterologist with Regional Physician Services, Dr. Victor Lawrinenko is a board-certified gastroenterologist with extensive training in diseases of the digestive tract. Together with his team of professionals, Dr. Lawrinenko is committed to providing the latest, most innovative medical care for the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal and liver disease. To make an appointment with him, visit www.regionalphysicianservices.com or call (573) 778-2600.

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