Colon cancer screening refers to tests that are used to look for colon cancer when a person does not have symptoms. Colon cancer is the second leading cause of death in men and women in the United States, yet it is one of the easiest cancers to treat when detected early, with a survival rate greater than 90%.
Typically, colon cancer developed from precancerous polyps, which are abnormal growths in the colon or rectum. Cancer screening detects these precancerous polyps before they develop into cancerous cells.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss candidates for colon cancer screening as well as the benefits of colon cancer screening. Additionally, we will also mention a gastroenterology and endoscopy center where you can go for colon cancer screening.
Who Should Consider Colon Cancer Screening?
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends individuals get regular colon cancer screening if they:
- Are of age 45 or over.
- Have a personal history of precancerous polyps or inflammatory bowel disease.
- Have colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps in their family history.
- Have inherited syndrome such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
Benefits Of Colon Cancer Screening
If you are at risk for colorectal cancer due to your genetic makeup, age, race, family history, or lifestyle, getting colon cancer screening regularly can offer you numerous benefits, including the following:
Early Detection of Cancer
The primary benefit of colon cancer screening is that it can detect colorectal cancer in the early stages even when patients do not experience symptoms and when cancer is easier to treat. Early detection of precancerous polyps can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment. Early detection also increases the likelihood of positive treatment outcomes.
Prevention of Cancer
Colon cancer screening is a good way to prevent colon cancer from developing. This is because, in colon cancer screening tests like colonoscopy,any precancerous polypscan be removed before they turn into cancerous cells. The removal of the precancerous polyps can significantly minimize the risk of developing colorectal cancer in the future.
Increased Survival Rate
Colorectal cancer can be deadlyif left undiagnosed and untreated. Colon cancer screening can reduce the death rate by up to 50% among people aged 50 and older. Studies have also shown that a type of colorectal cancer screening test called a colonoscopy can result in a 75% reduction in therisk of death from the left side colorectal cancer and a 65% reduction in deaths from right-sided colorectal cancer.
Less Aggressive Treatment
When detected at advanced stages, colon cancer warrants a more aggressive treatment plan which may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or extensive surgeries. Aggressive treatments come with various side effects and can take a significant toll on patients’ physical and emotional well-being.
Colon cancer screening detects cancer at its earliest stages, reducing the need for more invasive and aggressive treatments.
Peace of Mind
Another good benefit of having regular colon cancer screening is that it providesan individual with peace of mind, especially for those who have a higher risk of developing colon cancer due to their family history or other risk factors. This is because colon cancer screening can not only detect potential cancerous changes early, but it can also rule out cancer altogether.
Colon Cancer Screening Near Me in Westlake and Brooklyn, Ohio
If you think that you or your loved one is at higher risk for colon cancer and are looking for colon cancer screening in and around Westlake and Brooklyn OH, visit us here at North Shore Gastroenterology. Our board-certified gastroenterologists can not only perform a wide range of colon cancer screening tests, such as stool tests, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and colonoscopy but also help you maintain your colon health. Our providers are also experienced in providing personalized treatments for a full spectrum of conditions of the gastrointestinal tract and related organs.
If you would like to know more about the colon cancer screening tests we offer or would like to make an appointment with one of our gastroenterologists, make a call today at (440) 808-1212 or use our convenient appointment request form.