Getting regular check-ups is essential for staying healthy, and one important area to focus on is colon cancer screening. Colon cancer is a leading cause of preventable deaths in the US. But with different methods available, you might wonder, “Which colon cancer screening near me is best for me?”
This article helps adults understand the types of screenings available and explains their advantages and disadvantages.
Understanding Colon Cancer
Colon cancer develops in the colon or rectum, parts of your digestive system. It is a common type of cancer that can be serious, but early detection makes it more treatable. Regular screenings can catch colon cancer early or even prevent it by finding pre-cancerous growths, known as polyps.
In 2019, there were 142,462 cases of colon and rectal cancer reported: 75,581 in men and 66,881 in women. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2024, there will be about 106,590 new cases of colon cancer and 46,220 new cases of rectal cancer.
Exploring Types of Colon Cancer Screenings
According to the US Preventive Services Task Force, adults aged 45 to 75 should have colorectal cancer screening. For those over the age of 75, the decision to get screened should be based on personal factors. If you are over 75, it is a good idea to discuss colon cancer screening options with your gastroenterology provider.
When considering a colon cancer screening near me, it is important to know the different types. Here are the main screening methods:
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a visual test in which doctors use a flexible tube with a camera to check the inside of your colon. It is considered the gold standard because it can both detect and remove polyps during the same procedure. However, it requires preparation, like fasting and taking laxatives, and sedation during the test.
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)
FIT is a stool-based test that checks for hidden blood in your stool, which can be a sign of cancer. It is not invasive and easy to do at home. While it is convenient, it does not detect polyps directly, so if the test is positive, a follow-up colonoscopy is needed.
Pros and Cons of Types of Colon Cancer Screening
Let us explore some of the pros and cons of the most common types of screening tests for colon cancer.
Stool-Based Tests
Here are the pros and cons of stool-based tests.
Pros:
- Non-invasive
- Easy to perform at home
- No preparation needed
Cons:
- Only detects blood, not polyps
- Positive results require a follow-up colonoscopy
Visual Tests
Here are the pros and cons of visual tests.
Pros:
- Can detect and remove polyps
- Provides a clear view of the colon
Cons:
- Requires preparation
- Involves sedation and a recovery period
Determining Who Should Get Screened
Typically, it is recommended to begin screening at age 45. However, you may need to get screened earlier if you have certain risk factors. These include:
- A family history of colon cancer
- Certain genetic conditions
- Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease
Talking to a healthcare provider, such as a gastroenterologist near me, can help determine the best time to begin screening based on your risk factors.
Understanding What Happens After a Screening
After you have chosen a “colonoscopy near me” or another method, you will receive your results. Here is what they mean.
- Negative Result: No signs of cancer or polyps were found. Regular screenings should continue as recommended by your doctor.
- Positive Result: This may indicate the presence of blood or polyps. Further testing, usually a colonoscopy, is needed to explore further.
Regardless of the outcome, your gastroenterology provider will discuss the next steps and guide you on maintaining your digestive health.
Early detection is key to effective treatment. Screenings can find changes before they turn into cancer, making it easier to treat or even prevent the disease altogether. Regular screenings can save lives by catching cancer early when it is most treatable.
If you are unsure about the right screening options, do not hesitate to consult a “gastroenterology doctor” or “gastroenterologist near me”.
Colon Cancer Screening Near Me in Westlake and Brooklyn, Ohio
North Shore Gastroenterology strives to provide its patients with the best gastroenterology care. We are an independent practice, which allows us to focus on our patients and provide compassionate, quality GI care. For colon cancer screening, we offer several options and will recommend what we think is best for you.
Our gastroenterologists are highly trained physicians who will guide you from diagnosis to treatment. For any questions or to schedule a consultation with one of our GI specialists, call our office today at (440) 808-1212 or use our convenient appointment request form.