When Should You Get Screened for Colorectal Cancer?
2/16/2023
How can you keep your colon in good health? You're certainly not alone if you’ve ever wondered where to start regarding the health of your colon. Adequate amounts of physical activity, a well-balanced diet, and regular health screenings are just a few ways to protect your health as you become older. Colon and rectal cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed but preventable cancers because of the screenings that are available for identifying this disease. Taking charge of your colorectal health can be as easy as arranging a consultation at Gastroenterology Associates. Our Baton Rouge, LA gastrointestinal (GI) specialists can help guide you toward a future of health.
Why are colon cancer screenings essential?
As reported by the American Cancer Society (ACS), colorectal cancer affects the health of around 4% of women and men in the U.S.. That is about 1 in 25 individuals. However, colon cancer can be avoided if it is diagnosed in the early stages.
In most instances, colon cancers start as a growth (clump of cellular material) on the internal lining of the rectum or colon (large intestine). These growths are called colorectal polyps. It is rare to have symptoms when polyps are present, meaning a colorectal cancer screening is vital for detecting them. By having periodic examinations, you’re helping to safeguard your GI and overall health by getting any polyps removed before they develop into cancer. It is also imperative, however, to arrange for a colon cancer screening if you experience any of the following:
- Pain in the abdomen
- Change in bowel habits
- Change in stool form or color
- Anal bleeding
Why is colorectal cancer so common?
Even though there isn't a clear answer to why colon cancer has become more common over time, certain factors may increase the chance of colon cancer. Keeping informed and becoming familiar with the risk factors associated with this cancer can enable you to remain observant and make ideal decisions for the future. Some of the risk factors for colon cancer involve:
- A diet that incorporates a high amount of processed meat
- Being diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis)
- A low-fat and high-fat diet
- Lack of physical activity
- Family history of colon cancer
- A diet lacking vegetables and fruits
- A prior history of colorectal cancer
- Tobacco use
We encourage you to schedule an appointment with a Gastroenterology Associates gastrointestinal specialist. Our Baton Rouge, LA team can help you learn more about colorectal cancer and how you can take the path toward future health and wellness.
How often should a person undergo a colorectal cancer test?
It’s recommended to get an initial colon cancer screening starting at 45 years of age if you have a standard risk for colon cancer and then every ten years following. The risk of developing polyps and colon cancer increases with age, meaning that the more times you undergo a colon cancer test, the earlier an issue can be detected. Upon turning 75, it's suggested you undergo testing based on your general health and your GI specialist's advisement.
It is essential to understand that having a familial or personal history of colon cancer or polyps places you in the significantly higher risk category. If you’re in this significant high risk group, you’ll likely require a colonoscopy exam a minimum of once every five years. It can bring you peace of mind to understand the status of your colorectal health and wellness rather than to wonder whether you should request a GI visit. A standard assessment for colon or rectal cancer, best known as a colonoscopy, typically takes under 60 minutes to complete. This screening is a great way to determine your colon's current status in addition to what modifications you might need to make to help keep your colon in good health in the future.
Schedule your colon cancer screening in Baton Rouge, LA today
Having regular colon cancer screenings can help safeguard your future health and wellness. The American Cancer Society reports that about 144,000 new colorectal cancer cases are diagnosed on an annual basis. Help reduce that statistic today by scheduling a colon cancer test at Gastroenterology Associates in Baton Rouge, LA. Should you have questions or concerns about the test, don't hesitate to discuss them with your gastrointestinal specialist during your visit.