Stay ahead of the curve: Colon cancer screenings

Colon cancer screenings may not be a favorite topic, but they’re a game-changer for health. Colonoscopies, in particular, are like superheroes – catching issues early.

New recommendations for colorectal cancer screenings now state that people at average risk should start screening at age 45. But some people may need earlier screening, or screenings more often. Gregory FitzHarris, MD, a colorectal surgeon with Sentara Surgery Specialists in Hampton, says, “People with a higher risk of colorectal cancer, such as a family history, or inflammatory bowel disease, should ask their physician to determine the best age to start screening.”

How is “high risk” defined?

People at increased or high risk of colorectal cancer might need to start colorectal cancer screening before age 45, be screened more often, and/or get specific tests. This includes people with:

• A strong family history of colorectal cancer or certain types of polyps
• A personal history of colorectal cancer or certain types of polyps
• A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)
• A known family history of a hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome (also known as hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer or HNPCC)

Questions to ask your provider about colon cancer screening:

• When should I start colorectal cancer screening?
• What is my risk for colorectal cancer?
• How often do I need screening?
• Which screening tests do I need?
• How do I get my test results?
• What do my results mean?

What screening is best?

There are several screening methods available for colon cancer, which boil down to two methods: A visual check and a stool check.

Dr. FitzHarris says, “I like to say there are different ‘flavors’ of these tests, and my favorite is the colonoscopy because it is both diagnostic and therapeutic—if we find polyps during a colonoscopy we can remove them at that time – so we are detecting pre-cancerous tissue, removing it, and preventing it from growing into cancer.”

And while colonoscopies may not be considered “fun,” the good news is that this type of screening only needs to be done every 10 years, if normal, for most people with average risk.

Stool colon cancer screenings explained:

Stool screenings must be done more often (every 1 to 3 years) and involve providing a stool for testing.

“Stool studies do have disadvantages,” says Dr. FitzHarris, “They can miss precancerous polyps since often they’re not bleeding at that stage. That’s why colonoscopies are our preferred method; we can catch pre-cancerous polyps and remove them before they become cancerous.”

“But any screening is better than no screening,” adds Dr. FitzHarris.

Why do people fear colonoscopies?

The idea of undergoing a medical procedure, even a routine screening, can evoke fear and anxiety. People may hesitate or feel unsure about scheduling a screening, leading to confusion about the best course of action.

It’s not uncommon for people to be anxious about a colonoscopy. But Dr. FitzHarris emphasizes the risks of the procedure itself are low, and with a normal colonoscopy, the patient won’t need another one for 10 years.

“I hear from patients who are worried about what we may find. The main thing to know for many people is that you aren’t going to find anything, but if we do, then we can start by taking care of it while you’re in the procedure,” adds Dr. FitzHarris.

Let’s talk colonoscopy prep

One thing most people agree on when it comes to a colonoscopy? The “prep” is the least pleasant part. The bowel preparation for a colonoscopy typically involves consuming a large volume of a laxative solution. Many people find the taste and texture of the solution unappealing, making it challenging to drink the required amount.

The prep type offered may depend on health insurance, but Dr. FitzHarris recommends talking with your doctor. “There are newer options for colonoscopy prep, including a pill-only prep that some patients may prefer,” he says, “So ask your doctor about your options and cost. The prep is crucial to ensuring a successful colonoscopy.”

The procedure itself tends to be easier for patients. During a colonoscopy, patients are typically fully asleep. However, the level of sedation can vary based on the patient’s preference, medical condition, and the complexity of the procedure. Most patients have no memory of the procedure itself.

Don’t wait to screen for colon cancer:

• Schedule your colonoscopy beginning at age 45 if you are at average risk.
• Remember that early colon cancer does not have signs or symptoms, so it is important to get screened.
• With screening and early diagnosis, colon cancer can be cured.
• A polyp can take up to 10 years to develop into cancer. With colonoscopies, doctors can remove polyps before they turn into cancer.

Contact us

Find a cancer specialist or call 1-888-220-2214 to learn more.

Upcoming virtual events

Register for our webinar, Finding colon cancer in younger adults on March 27 at noon to learn more about myths versus facts when it comes to colon cancer screening.

Learn more about Nutrition and Colon Cancer in a webinar on March 28 at noon with Shaye Arluk, oncology dietitian and nutrition coordinator at Sentara Brock Cancer Center.