While March brings the beginnings of spring and St. Patrick's Day, it also serves as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. This campaign encourages individuals to learn about the importance of regular screenings, especially for those over the age of 45 or with a family history of colorectal cancer. The goal is to foster conversations that could ultimately lead to earlier diagnoses, improved treatment outcomes, and a reduction in the number of preventable deaths from this disease.
There are two methods for colorectal cancer screening: a colonoscopy, and Cologuard. If you are someone who is high risk for colorectal cancer (family history of colorectal cancer, history of inflammatory bowel disease [IBD], history of polyps) then a colonoscopy is the most appropriate choice for you. A colonoscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the inner lining of the colon and rectum, and is used to detect abnormalities such as polyps, tumors, or signs of colon cancer. In fact, colonoscopy is one of the most effective tools for preventing colon cancer, as polyps can often be removed during the procedure before they develop into cancer. Furthermore, colonoscopies can aide in diagnosing other gastrointestinal conditions, such Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. If you are someone who is average risk for colorectal cancer, or have concerns about the colonoscopy procedure itself, then you may benefit from utilizing Cologuard. Cologuard is a non-invasive screening test that involves collecting a stool sample at home, which is then sent to a lab for analysis. The test looks for DNA markers and blood that could indicate the presence of cancerous or precancerous cells in the colon. Cologuard offers a convenient alternative to traditional colonoscopies; however, if the test results are positive, a follow-up colonoscopy is typically recommended.
The recommended follow-up timeline for colorectal screening may vary should a patient be high-risk. Typically, a colonoscopy is repeated every 10 years unless otherwise indicated, and Cologuard is repeated every 3 years. While the idea of starting colorectal screening can be intimidating, the benefits of early detection and prevention are quite literally lifesaving. Every year, the number of adults younger than 45 years of age who are diagnosed with colorectal cancer is steadily increasing. Be proactive with your health and follow your healthcare provider's advice regarding screening guidelines.
