The Potential for Prevention
Since early colon cancer usually has no symptoms, choosing to get a screening exam is one of the most important decisions you can make to reduce your risks. In the absence of symptoms, a screening can find colorectal cancers at an early stage with the best chances of successful treatment. Detecting and removing the polyp early may prevent it from becoming cancer.
The American Cancer Society recommends that starting at age 50, men and women considered “average risk” should have one of the following screenings. The recommended frequencies of these screenings are based on adults with average risk. Men and women with increased or high risk should be tested more frequently.
SCREENING COLONOSCOPY
How often: Every 10 yearsDescription: A slender lighted tube allows the doctor to view and check the rectum and entire length of the colon for polyps.
Advantages/Disadvantages: The most effective detection method. If found, polyps can be sampled and removed during the same procedure
FLEXIBLE SIGMOIDOSCOPY
How often: Every 5 years
Description: A slender lighted tube that allows the doctor to see the rectum and lower part of the colon.
Advantages/Disadvantages: Only checks the lower portion of the colon. Positive results should be followed by a colonoscopy.
FECAL OCCULT BLOOD TEST
How often: Every year
Description: A test kit administered at home to find small amounts of blood (occult) hidden in the stool.
Advantages/Disadvantages: Will not show the early presence of polyps. Positive results should be followed by a colonoscopy.
Fecal Occult Blood Test plus flexible sigmoidoscopy: Positive results should be followed by a colonoscopy.
