Colorectal Cancer Screening: Know Your Options
Each year, 1 in 20 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer (a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum). However, colorectal cancer is 90 percent preventable with early detection.
Colorectal cancer screening tests can find precancerous polyps, which can be removed before they turn into cancer. If you’re older than 45 or are high-risk, it’s time to see us for your first screening. Then, keep getting screened regularly, as determined by your doctor.
“Screening is critical. Over the years, we have learned that polyps in the colon or rectum can develop into cancer. Screening can help detect these changes before they become severe, allowing us to remove the polyp and reduce the chances of developing cancer. If someone has a positive colon cancer screening and we remove a polyp that may have become cancerous in the future, we just prevented colon cancer.”
Get Screened Today!
You and your doctor have a choice about what screening test to use. There are two common types of colorectal screening tests.
Stool Tests
Stool tests, such as the FIT Kit (Fecal Immunochemical Test), are at-home tests that check stool for hidden amounts of blood. Once your test is completed, just put it in the mail and it will be sent directly to the laboratory for analysis! You will be contacted with your results within a couple weeks after the test has been submitted.
If your test is abnormal or positive, blood was detected in your stool. You will get a phone call to talk about your results and next steps. A positive stool test is not a diagnosis, but rather a question mark that needs further evaluation. Most of the time, a positive stool test means you will need a colonoscopy to look for the cause of blood in your stool.
If your test is normal or negative, there was no blood found in your stool at the time of your test. You will need to repeat your stool test each year and maintain regular screenings.
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopies use a camera to view the colon and check for potential problems. If polyps are found, your doctor will remove them to prevent them from developing into cancer. This outpatient procedure only takes about 30 minutes.
Preparing for a colonoscopy isn’t always fun, but it’s necessary to ensure the doctor can have a clear view of your colon. You may be asked to follow a specific diet or take a laxative the day before your appointment. You will discuss these options with your doctor prior to your colonoscopy.
If your colonoscopy results are positive, there were polyps or abnormal tissue found in your colon. Any polyps removed during the procedure will be sent to the lab for analysis. Based on the lab results, your doctor will work closely with you on your next steps. If your colonoscopy results are negative, no abnormalities were found in your colon.
If you’re over 45 years old, your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy every 10 years. If you have additional risk factors or a family history of colorectal cancers, your doctor may recommend more consistent screenings. Make sure to speak with your primary care provider about the best options for your care.
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We believe building a relationship of trust helps promote good health. SIH offers comprehensive care for patients of all ages, close to home. With convenient locations in Carbondale, Murphysboro, Herrin, West Frankfort, Anna, Harrisburg and Carrier Mills we’re able to build healthy, local relationships which can create a lifelong understanding of good health.