Colon cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that affects thousands of people each year. However, the good news is that colon cancer is also one of the most preventable types of cancer, thanks in large part to the effectiveness of regular colonoscopy screenings. In this blog post, we'll discuss why colonoscopies are so important for preventing colon cancer and how often you should be getting them.
What is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows your doctor to examine the inside of your colon (large intestine) for any abnormalities or signs of disease. During the procedure, a long, flexible tube with a camera on the end (called a colonoscope) is inserted into your rectum and guided through your entire colon.
Your doctor can then visually inspect the lining of your colon for any polyps, which are small growths that can potentially turn into cancer over time. If any polyps are found, your doctor can remove them during the colonoscopy using special instruments passed through the colonoscope.
Why Are Colonoscopies Important for Preventing Colon Cancer?
Colonoscopies are considered the gold standard for colon cancer screening because they allow your doctor to detect and remove precancerous polyps before they have a chance to turn into cancer. This is significant because colon cancer typically develops slowly over several years, beginning as a benign polyp that gradually becomes cancerous.
By identifying and removing these polyps early through regular colonoscopy screenings, your doctor can effectively prevent colon cancer from developing in the first place. In fact, studies have shown that regular colonoscopies can reduce your risk of dying from colon cancer by up to 70%.
Colonoscopies can also detect colon cancer in its early stages when it is most treatable. When colon cancer is caught early, before it has spread to other parts of the body, the 5-year survival rate is over 90%. However, if colon cancer is not detected until it has spread to distant organs, the 5-year survival rate drops to just 14%.
How Often Should You Get a Colonoscopy?
The American Cancer Society recommends that people at average risk for colon cancer begin regular colonoscopy screenings at age 45. If your colonoscopy results are normal, you can typically wait 10 years before getting your next one.
However, if you have certain risk factors for colon cancer, your doctor may recommend more frequent colonoscopies. These risk factors include:
A personal history of colon cancer or precancerous polyps
A family history of colon cancer or precancerous polyps
A history of inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis)
Certain genetic syndromes (such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis)
If you have any of these risk factors, your doctor may recommend getting a colonoscopy every 5 years or even more frequently, depending on your individual situation.
Preparing for Your Colonoscopy
To ensure that your doctor has a clear view of your colon during the colonoscopy, you will need to thoroughly cleanse your bowels beforehand. This typically involves following a special diet and taking a laxative solution the day before the procedure to empty your colon.
While the preparation process can be somewhat uncomfortable, it is essential for ensuring the accuracy and effectiveness of the colonoscopy. Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to prepare for your procedure.
DON'T WAIT TO BOOK YOUR COLONOSCOPY APPOINTMENT
If you are due for a colonoscopy or have any concerns about your colon health, don't wait to schedule your appointment. Regular colonoscopies are crucial for preventing colon cancer and detecting it early when it is most treatable. Contact me today to book your appointment and take control of your colon health.
Remember, colon cancer is a serious but highly preventable disease. By getting regular colonoscopies and following your doctor's recommendations for screening and prevention, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing this potentially life-threatening condition.