Why is colon cancer screening important?

Symptoms such as a change in bowel habits, unintentional weight loss, rectal bleeding, and unexplained abdominal pain are a few reasons to see a Gastroenterologist as soon as possible. These are just some of the more common symptoms but doesn’t necessarily mean you are not having an issue. This is very important because the early stages of colorectal cancer can sometimes have no symptoms at all. Detecting colon cancer early can save your life!

The first recommendation for colon cancer screening will always be a colonoscopy because it is a more accurate test with a scope. There are a few types of laxatives for bowel prep including liquid prep or tablets. Patient preference is important because the entire colon has to be completely cleaned out to ensure good views. Adequate prep of all areas of the colon and rectum is important to be able to clearly evaluate and rule out cancer. Screening Colonoscopies are covered by most insurance plans. I feel this is the best choice for colorectal cancer screening because the endoscopist can inspect, evaluate, obtain a biopsy, and remove and diagnose abnormalities inside the Colon and rectum.

What are polyps? A polyp is a small growth, usually noncancerous, protruding from the internal wall of the colon. Polyps can grow in several locations in the GI tract but are mostly found in the colon. Polyps can either be non-cancerous, precancerous, and/or cancerous. These are typically removed and sent to Pathology for a detailed diagnosis. Recommendations on when to repeat a Colonoscopy depends on the individual’s risk factors including age, history of polyps, and family history of colon cancer. The number of polyps found, types of polyps, and successful bowel prep all play a part in deciding when your next colonoscopy is. Talk to your doctor about adopting a high-fiber diet to ensure healthy bowels and exercise to help reduce the risk of polyps.

As with all medical procedures, a colonoscopy can be a little unnerving, but most patients tell me it wasn’t as big a deal as they thought it would be. Our medical team will make you feel comfortable and at ease from the minute you walk in the door. We use propofol for sedation which allows you to have a “great nap” without feeling anything and also helps patients wake up quickly without a hangover effect. We recommend taking the day before the procedure and the day of the procedure off from work so you can take the prep as prescribed and rest after the colonoscopy.

There are at-home colorectal cancer screening tests as well. In this case, the patient receives a kit in the mail with instructions on how to do the test and how to send a stool sample back to the lab. This type of screening tool can be beneficial for patients who are mentally or physically unable to tolerate the colonoscopy. At-home screening tests can detect both altered DNA and blood in the stool. If this is found it means there is a presence of abnormal cells or blood in the stool which may indicate cancer or precancer tumors. The colon sheds cells from its lining constantly, so the test may detect abnormal DNA changes in certain genes. There is no bowel prep for this test and insurance generally covers 100% of the cost. If the at-home screening test comes back positive, the patient will need to be scheduled for a colonoscopy within the month to rule out colorectal cancer. Unfortunately, home tests cannot diagnose cancer or differentiate between benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous). Studies show that 13% of at-home colorectal cancer screening tests have false positives, but they cannot be proven to be false positives without a colonoscopy. Sometimes this can cause unnecessary worry or anxiety in the patient.

Come see me today for a colon cancer screening. I will be glad to discuss your current GI concerns and answer all of your questions regarding prep and procedure, as well as any GI problems. These may range from trouble swallowing, acid reflux/heartburn, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, rectal bleeding, liver disease, gallbladder dysfunction, unintentional weight loss, and more. I will also see you after the procedure to discuss the physician’s notes and the pathology report.

Kimberly Powell, FNP-BC is accepting new patients. For more information or to schedule an appointment please call 843-674-1530, or visit MUSCHealth.org.