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Screening for Colorectal Cancer
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Ronald J. Barkin , M.D.
Gastroenterology
Internal Medicine |
Q: Why is it important to get screened for colorectal cancer?
Dr. Barkin: Most colorectal cancer develops from polyps in the colon and rectum. Screening tests for colorectal cancer can find polyps before they become cancer. Removing these polyps prevents cancer. Screening can also detect colorectal cancer in its earliest stages before symptoms appear. Over 90% of colorectal cancers can be successfully treated if detected at an early stage.
Q: When should I begin screening for colorectal cancer?
Dr. Barkin: The risk for colorectal cancer increases with age. It is most common in men and woman over 50. Most men and women should begin screening for colorectal cancer at age 50. People who are at higher-than-average risk - those with a family or personal history of colon cancer, intestinal polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or other cancers including ovarian, breast, or endometrial cancer - may need to be screened at an earlier age and be screened more often.
Q: What are the screening tests for colorectal cancer?
Dr. Barkin: There are several screening tests for colorectal cancer. Some screening tests are used alone; others are used together. Each test has its advantages and disadvantages. Talk to your doctor about the best testing option for you. Regardless of the screening option you choose, positive results will always require further testing. And most importantly, no matter your age, if you experience symptoms of colorectal cancer - rectal bleeding, stomach cramps, a change in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, fatigue - see your doctor for testing.
| SCREENING TEST |
DESCRIPTION |
RECOMMENDATION |
| Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) |
Tests for occult (hidden) blood in the stool that may indicate polyp or cancer. |
Annually |
| Sigmoidoscopy |
Doctor uses lighted tube to check rectum and lower colon. |
Every 5 Years |
| FOBT Combined With Sigmoidoscopy |
Using both tests increases chances of finding polyps or cancer. |
Recommended as the preferred approach over FOBT alone |
| Double-Contrast Barium Enema |
X-ray of the rectum and colon. Barium used to outline the colon. |
Option every 5 - 10 years |
| Colonoscopy |
Doctor uses lighted tube to check rectum and entire colon. Polyps can be removed during a colonoscopy. |
Option every 10 years |
Resources:
American Cancer Society Colon Cancer Screening Information Brochure
American Cancer Society (ACS) movie - "Get Tested For Colon Cancer: Here's How."
Green Team Screening Guidelines Chart
Colon Cancer Alliance - Advantages & Disadvantages of Different Screening Methods
Virtual Colonoscopy & DNA Stool Testing: The Future of Colon Cancer Screening?
About Colorectal Cancer: Colorectal Cancer Screening
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