Colon Cancer

Colorectal Cancer Prevention: Know Before It Is Too Late

Colorectal cancer prevention is the best solution. One would rather prevent it than get it. It has been said “Prevention is better than the cure”.  In the case of cancer per se, it is even more important. Colorectal or colon cancer is one of the major causes of premature death all over the world. In the USA alone, it is the second biggest cause of death.

Thus, it is better you begin as early as you can. ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER OR PHYSICIAN. The article here is only for information, and creating awareness about this disease.

Screening Yourself

Screening will remove any doubt whether there is any abnormal growth in your colon or not. Normally, abnormal growth always means a high intensity of your getting colorectal or colon cancer. The earlier it is detected and treated, the less  risk of you getting that cancer.

When ?

Preferably as soon as possible, but more importantly when you get to be in your late 40s. To some of the younger generations, it should be done if there is a history of cancer in your family. Screening after 50 should be continued at regular interval times. Screen yourself if you or a close relative have had colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer; or if inflammatory bowel disease is present. Your physician knows best. Get in touch.

Here are some general questions you may consider asking your physician. What is colorectal cancer?

• Do I need to be tested? Why? How often will I need to be screened?
• Who will do the exam?
• What is the screening test you recommend? Why?
• What's involved in screening? How do I prepare?
• How long does the test take? Can I return to work after the test? Can I drive? Will the test be painful or uncomfortable? Is any risk involved in it?
• If I have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, do I need to be tested before I'm 50 or more often than other people?
• Will my insurance cover the screening test?
• How much will my screening test cost?

How is colorectal cancer is screened?

There are several ways for this screening.

Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT)

This is a check for occult (hidden) blood in the stools. Take some test cards from your doctor. When you pass a stool, place a small amount of the stool on one form. Three such consecutive tests should be done, each on separate cards. Turn in the cards to your physician or lab, for checking for blood. You then return the cards to your doctor's office or to a lab where they're checked for blood. If blood is not found, forget it for about a year. If blood is found, then you have to go for additional tests. Again, your physician is your best bet.

Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

A strong laxative to clear and clean your colon is good. Using a narrow, flexible, lighted tube, the physician will look at the inside of the rectum and the lower portion of the colon. While examining you, the physician may remove polyps (abnormal growths) from the colon, and collect samples of tissue or cells for closer examination.  If polyps are found, a follow up will be needed. (If polyps are discovered, you have to undergo a follow-up colonoscopy).

Colonoscopy

This is similar to a sigmoidoscopy, except that the physician is able to see the entire colon. Polyps if found would be removed for biopsy. The [physician would inform you about the results.

Colon Cancer