Colorectal Cancer Screening: Prevention To Promote a Healthier Life
At Tucson Gastroenterology Specialists, we go beyond simply treating gastrointestinal health conditions. We believe in a preventative approach to safeguard your health. With colorectal cancer being known as the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States, we do our part to encourage early intervention to help our patients lead a healthier and happier life. With our colorectal cancer screening, our mission is to save lives and give patients the vital tools and insight they need to make positive decisions for their health.
Exploring Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer is commonly referred to as colon cancer. Colorectal cancer impacts parts of the large intestine, including the rectum and colon. It is the third most diagnosed type of cancer in men and women. Fortunately, while it’s a prominent type of cancer, it is also one of the most treatable and preventable when individuals are proactive with their colorectal cancer screenings that enable early detection and intervention.
Understanding a Colorectal Cancer Screening
A colorectal cancer screening is a prevention procedure that includes a series of tests that identify pre-cancerous or cancerous growths. It’s recommended to pursue your first colorectal cancer screening at the age of 45. For patients with heightened risk factors, such as a history of colon cancer in their family, the screening age may be younger. If no signs of pre-cancerous or cancerous masses are found during the first screening, it’s important to continue to get screened every ten years.
Colonoscopy Colorectal Cancer Screening
There are several options for colorectal cancer screenings. A colonoscopy is the gold standard in colorectal cancer screening, and is the preferred method for detecting pre-cancerous and cancerous growths. The procedure involves a thorough examination of the patient’s colon and rectum using a tube equipped with a camera. A colonoscopy can detect up to 95% of colorectal cancer symptoms. This procedure not only allows physicians to identify areas of concern, but also provides the opportunity to remove them during the same procedure.
Preparing for a Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy procedures require preparation to ensure favorable results. Prior to the appointment, patients must cleanse the colon using a pre-colonoscopy beverage given by their physician that works to remove any stool from the colon. This allows the physician to gain a clear, unobstructed view during the colorectal cancer screening. On the day of the appointment, the patient is placed under sedation to promote comfort during the procedure. The sedation is not a general anesthesia, but instead puts patients in a sleepy state to mitigate discomfort.
Alternative Colorectal Cancer Screening Procedures
Beyond a colonoscopy, there are several other types of colorectal cancer screening alternatives. These procedures include:
- Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): The FIT test is a lab test that detects signs of blood in the patient’s stool.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a test that includes a tube with a camera, similar to a colonoscopy. However, it only observes the lower part of the colon and the rectum.
- CT Colonography: a CT colonography is a CT scan used to digitally observe the colon and rectum. This procedure is often used for patients who cannot undergo sedation or patients on certain medications that may prohibit them from pursuing a standard colonoscopy.
Get Proactive a Colorectal Cancer Screening
Get proactive about your health with Tucson Gastroenterology Specialists and colorectal cancer screening. Contact our friendly professionals today to discuss your digestive healthcare needs and learn more about how we can help you with preventative health procedures.
