However, there are many ways to reduce your risk or prevent colon cancer. The best thing you can do to prevent colon cancer is to get screened.
Q. Why is colon cancer screening important?
A. Colon cancer results from a small polyp that forms in the lining of the colon. This small polyp gradually grows larger and larger. A polyp that is large enough develops cancer and begins to spread. It is important to remember that the process of developing cancer from a polyp takes approximately 10 years. Time is enough to screen for and get rid of cancer before it turns into cancer.
Think of a polyp as a mushroom sitting on a stalk. If a doctor identifies it with a colonoscopy, he or she can dissect the fungus.
Q. How do you screen for colon cancer?
There are multiple ways to screen for colon cancer today.
These options include:< br />
• Colonoscopy: Before the colonoscopy, you will be asked to prepare your bowel by drinking a liquid that helps cleanse your large intestine. Then, doctors use a device with a camera attached to one end to screen for polyps or cancer. If a polyp is found during the procedure, your doctor may remove it at the same time.
• Fecal occult blood test: This test finds blood in the stool. You place a small stool sample on a provided card and send it to the laboratory. If there is evidence of blood, your doctor may recommend that you have a colonoscopy for further testing.
• Sigmoidoscopy: Sigmoidoscopy is another type of examination that looks at the lower third of the large intestine, where 60 percent of cancers occur.
< • Barium enema: During this test, barium liquid is placed into the rectum through an enema and an x-ray is then taken. Barium enema can be used to screen for polyps or cancer.
• Virtual colonoscopy: A type of colonoscopy performed with a tomography device.
S. How do you know which screening is best for you?
A. Most doctors recommend that healthy people over the age of 50 have a colonoscopy every 10 years. Colonoscopy is the best way for doctors to detect colon cancer.
Each type of scanning has its own advantages and disadvantages. Your doctor can provide more information about screening options and recommend which is best for you based on several factors, including:
· Family history
·General health
p>·Personal preference
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