Are You at Risk For Colon Cancer?
Regular Screenings and Check-Ups Are Essential for Early Detection
The most common forms of colorectal cancer screening are:
- Colonoscopy
An examination of the entire colon and rectum with a lighted instrument - Sigmoidoscopy
An examination of the lower colon and rectum with a lighted instrument - Fecal Occult Blood Test
A chemical test for blood in the stool - Virtual Colonoscopy
A computed tomography (CT) scan to evaluate the colon
Updated March 2008 — Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women and the third leading cause of cancer death. Yet, many people know little about this disease, their personal risk factors and the importance of regular colorectal cancer screenings. March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and Memorial Cancer Institute has joined with organizations across America to increase awareness about colorectal cancer.
Evaluating Risk
People generally fall into three categories of risk for colorectal cancer — those with symptoms of colorectal cancer, those with a family history of the disease and those with no symptoms and no family history of colorectal cancer. Additionally, those who have a parent or sibling with colorectal cancer are three times more at risk.
Colorectal cancer typically develops from polyps (tissue growths) in the colon. Symptoms of colorectal cancer can include a change in bowel habits, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, fatigue and weight loss. Many people do not present any symptoms, however, which is why regular screenings are essential.
It is important to talk to your physician about appropriate screening methods and the recommended schedule for you. The American Cancer Society makes the following recommendations: Beginning at age 50, both men and women should follow one of these five screening options:
- Yearly Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) - the multiple-sample type (take-home); if positive results, a colonoscopy is needed
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years
- Yearly fecal occult blood test plus sigmoidoscopy every 5 years ( this combination is preferred over either of these two tests alone)
- Double-contrast barium enema every 5 years
- Colonoscopy every 10 years
Effective Treatment
The American Cancer Society estimates that 108,070 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2008. Early detection of cancer can increase the chance for a cure. If tests indicate colorectal cancer, surgery may be necessary to remove cancerous tissue of the colon or rectum. Treatment also may involve pre-operative chemotherapy or radiation, or post-operative combinations of radiation and/or chemotherapy.
If you are concerned about your risk for colorectal cancer and would like a referral to a physician, call Memorial Physician Referral Service toll-free at (800) 944-DOCS. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.