Colorectal cancer is preventable with regular screenings, and it is easier to treat if doctors diagnose it at an early stage before the disease spreads.
Colon Cancer Is a Common but Generally Preventable Cancer
Did you know nearly 60 million people between 45 and 85 are eligible for colon cancer screening in the United States? According to a study published in JAMA Network Open, the screening-eligible population is 57.1 to 59.6 million people.
Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death among adults, but it can affect individuals of all ages. The American Cancer Society recommends that everyone who is at average risk for colon cancer begin regular screening at age 45.
What Are the Screening Options for Colon Cancer?
There are two main categories of colon cancer screening methods: tests that analyze stool samples and visual examinations. All tests have different risks and benefits.
- Stool-based tests — These tests are non-invasive and check for signs of cancer in a stool sample. You must repeat these tests more often. Examples of stool-based tests include the following:
- Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) — You must repeat this test every year.
- FIT/Stool DNA test — You must repeat this test every three years.
- Guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT) — You must repeat this test every year.
- Visual exams — These cancer screening tests look for abnormalities in the structure of the rectum and colon. Examples of visual exams include the following:
- Colonoscopy — This is the gold standard for colon cancer screening because a doctor can remove polyps during the procedure and reduce the risk of cancer. If you do not have polyps, you may not need to repeat the test for 10 years.
- CT colonography — Must be repeated every five years.
- Sigmoidoscopy — Must be repeated every five years.
Even though colonoscopy is the most comprehensive colon cancer screening of the colon and rectum, stool-based tests have the benefit of being non-invasive and convenient. It is important to remember that if you get an abnormal result from a stool-based test, you must follow up with a colonoscopy (American Cancer Society). Follow-ups are recommended within six months following the abnormal test.
Deficits in Colon Cancer Screenings
Unfortunately, many Americans are not up to date on colorectal cancer screening. Reasons can range from avoidance to lack of education, but millions of people are not getting screened at recommended intervals or not getting tested at all.
“We hope our estimates can support policy makers and health care stakeholders to advance initiatives surrounding colorectal cancer screening to prevent this disease or identify it earlier when more can be done to treat it,” said Derek W. Ebner, MD, of the division of gastroenterology and hepatology at the Mayo Clinic.
Dr. Ebner conducted a study among people between the ages of 45 and 85 who were at average risk for colon cancer. In that sample, 59.3 percent to 61.8 percent were current on screening. The final estimated population that was eligible for screening was 57.1 to 59.6 million people, including individuals who were eligible for screening the following year.
Who Is at High Risk for Colorectal Cancer?
People qualify as increased or high risk if they have any of the following:
- A family history of colorectal cancer
- A personal history of colorectal cancer or specific type of polyp
- A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)
- A confirmed or suspected hereditary colon cancer syndrome, like familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch Syndrome (hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer)
- A history of radiation in the abdomen or pelvis because of prior cancer (ACS)
You May Be Due for a Colon Cancer Screening
If you are 45 or older, talk to your doctor about whether you are eligible for colon cancer screening this year. Most insurance plans provide coverage for screening colonoscopy for patients beginning at age 45, so call your insurance plan to verify coverage.
Locate a Colorectal Screening Center Near You
Our GI centers have fellowship-trained gastroenterologists to meet all your digestive system needs. Whether you seek a colon cancer screening or a consultation for a chronic GI problem, our physicians and caring staff are available to serve you. Call today to make an appointment.