When it comes to cancer screenings, colonoscopy is among the most prevalent and familiar to patients. Physicians begin recommending the test for most patients between the ages of 45 and 50. The reasons behind these recommendations are quite compelling. Of all types of cancers, colorectal is among the most easily detected and preventable. Furthermore, these forms of cancer have plenty of well-researched data available to help both physicians and patients better understand them, including facts such as the following:
Colorectal Cancer is the Third Most Commonly Diagnosed Form of Cancer
Among both American men and women, colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed, as well as the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. When men and women are combined, it becomes the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2019, there will be over 101,000 new cases of colon cancer and over 44,000 new cases of rectal cancer.
Colorectal Cancer Develops Slowly
Colorectal cancer is slow to develop. Most begin as polyps within the lining of the colon or rectum and can take as many as 10 to 15 years to become cancerous. This is one of the factors that makes colorectal cancer easier than most other forms to prevent and cure. For patients who maintain their screenings at recommended intervals, the chances of detecting cancer before it spreads are significantly higher than for those who avoid and delay testing.
The Majority of Colorectal Cancers Develop After the Age of 50
Most organizations recommend colorectal cancer screenings begin between the ages of 45 and 50. These numbers are not arbitrary, rather they are based on the average age of onset for most colorectal cancer patients. In fact, roughly 90 percent of new cases occur in individuals older than 50.
Smoking has been Linked to Colorectal Cancer
Smoking already has a strong connection to many other forms of cancer and disease, but many do not realize that it also has a correlation with colorectal cancer. Being a smoker increases a patient’s risk of developing the disease by introducing damaging free radicals which can mutate otherwise healthy cells. In addition, smokers are more likely to develop more aggressive types of polyps called adenomas.
Colonoscopy can Prevent Most Cases of Colorectal Cancer
During a colonoscopy, polyps are primarily what a gastroenterologist is looking to identify. By finding and removing pre-cancerous polyps, the vast majority of colorectal cancers can be prevented entirely, and in the event that a polyp is found to be in the early stages of cancer, removal boasts a 5-year survival rate of around 90 percent.
If your physician has recommended a colonoscopy, it is important to understand the many benefits that come with the procedure and its ability to provide both prevention and early detection of some of our nation’s deadliest forms of cancer. Do not delay the treatment that you need. One simple screening every 10 years is the typical recommendation for most average risk patients. To learn more about the test or to schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist, click below to contact Digestive Diseases Center.
