The Benefits of a Colonoscopy
9/13/2024
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 diagnosed and the second-leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. – and early detection dramatically increases the survival rate.
An estimated 106,590 new cases of colon cancer are expected in 2024, according to the American Cancer Society. If detected before it spreads, the five-year survival rate is about 90 percent – but if not caught before this point, the survival rate is lower.
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.
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, ulcerative colitis
Depending on your age, a colonoscopy screening may be a covered “wellness” test under your insurance plan – and most plans cover a colonoscopy completely as a follow-up test or diagnostic tool. Check with your insurance provider for more information before scheduling a screening exam.
Ready to schedule your colon screening? Call 228-436-1348 to schedule a screening test today.
Remember that this information is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor, but rather to increase awareness and help equip patients with information and facilitate conversations with your physician that will benefit your health.
Sources: American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org, National Cancer Institute, www.cancer.gov, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, www2.niddk.nih.gov/.
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