Preventing Colon Cancer With Screening for Colon Cancer and Colonoscopy

 

What Is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, begins in the large intestine (colon) or rectum. It typically begins as small clumps of cells, known as polyps, that form on the inner lining of the colon. Over time, some polyps can develop into cancer if not removed.

Risk factors include age, family history, diet, and lifestyle choices such as smoking and physical inactivity. Detecting these polyps early through screening greatly reduces the risk of cancer developing and improves treatment success if cancer is found.

How Colonoscopy Prevents Colon Cancer

Colon cancer screening can help prevent colon cancer to a great extent. Here are some of the ways it can help prevent you from this situation.

1. Detecting Precancerous Polyps

Colonoscopy helps identify small growths that could turn into cancer later.

2. Removing Polyps Immediately

Doctors can remove these polyps during the same procedure, stopping cancer before it starts.

3. Examining the Entire Colon

It allows direct visualization of the colon lining, ensuring no suspicious areas are missed.

4. Monitoring High-Risk Patients

Regular colonoscopies track those with prior polyps or family history, preventing recurrence.

How Colonoscopy Finds Cancer Early

1. Clear Visualization

A colonoscope’s camera provides a detailed view of the colon’s lining, helping doctors identify even the smallest changes or suspicious lesions that might indicate early cancer, ensuring diagnosis before symptoms appear.

2. Tissue Sampling

During the procedure, doctors can take tiny tissue samples (biopsies) from abnormal areas. These samples are analyzed under a microscope to confirm whether cancerous or precancerous cells are present, allowing for prompt treatment decisions.

3. Detecting Hidden Bleeding

Colonoscopy can identify internal bleeding that isn’t visible in stool tests. Hidden bleeding often signals early colon cancer or advanced polyps, and early detection helps initiate appropriate intervention before the disease progresses.

4. Mapping the Colon

By examining the full length of the colon, doctors can pinpoint the exact location of abnormalities. This information is vital for planning surgery or targeted therapies if cancer is detected, improving treatment accuracy and success.

What to Expect During a Colonoscopy

Before your colon cancer test, your doctor will provide instructions for bowel preparation, which usually includes a special liquid diet and medication to clear your colon. During the procedure, you’ll be sedated for comfort.

A flexible tube with a small camera is gently inserted through the rectum to examine the colon. The test typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes. You may feel mild bloating or cramping afterward, but these symptoms pass quickly. If polyps are found, they’re often removed on the spot.

Afterward, someone should drive you home, and you can return to normal activities by the next day.

Who Should Get Screened and When

For average-risk individuals, colon cancer screening should begin at age 45.

For high-risk individuals, such as those with a family history of colon cancer, genetic syndromes, or inflammatory bowel disease, screening may need to start earlier—even in teenage years. The recommended frequency for colonoscopy is typically every 10 years, but those with higher risks or prior polyps may need it more often.

Your doctor will tailor the screening schedule based on your personal and family health history, ensuring timely detection and prevention.

Types of Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests

There are several options for colonoscopy in Memphis, each with unique advantages. Stool-based tests—like the Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), Guaiac-based Fecal Occult Blood Test (gFOBT), and Stool DNA tests—analyze stool samples for signs of cancer or polyps. These tests are non-invasive, done at home, and require no bowel preparation. However, abnormal results mean a colonoscopy is needed for confirmation.

Visual exams—including colonoscopy, CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy), and sigmoidoscopy—allow doctors to view the colon’s interior. These procedures are more comprehensive and can detect or remove polyps directly. Colonoscopy remains the gold standard since it examines the entire colon, while CT colonography offers a less invasive alternative for those unable to undergo sedation.

Choosing the right colonoscopy service depends on personal preferences, medical history, and doctor recommendations.

Benefits and Limits of Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests

Choosing the Right Screening Method

Selecting screening for colon cancer should be a collaborative decision between you and your healthcare provider. Important factors include your personal and family medical history, comfort with the procedure, test availability and cost, and willingness to follow up with repeat testing if needed.

Remember, no single screening method is flawless—each has its own advantages and drawbacks. The best test is the one you feel most comfortable completing consistently and on schedule, as regular screening is the most effective way to protect your health.

FAQ

Q. What is the purpose of a stool-based test?

A. Stool-based tests such as FIT or Cologuard look for hidden signs of colon cancer or precancerous cells in your stool. They offer a simple, non-invasive way to check for early changes that could indicate a problem.

Q. How is a flexible sigmoidoscopy different from a colonoscopy?

A. A flexible sigmoidoscopy inspects only the lower part of your colon, whereas a colonoscopy examines the entire colon, offering a more complete view for detecting polyps or other abnormalities.

Q. Are there preparations required before a colonoscopy?

A. Yes. Preparation involves following a special diet and taking a bowel-cleansing solution to empty the colon. This ensures your doctor has a clear view during the exam.

Q. Can colon cancer screening prevent cancer?

A. Absolutely. Screening can catch early-stage cancer or detect polyps before they become cancerous. Removing these growths early helps prevent colon cancer from developing.

Q. What if I have a family history of colon cancer?

A. Those with a family history may need earlier and more frequent screenings. Discuss your background with your doctor to create a personalized screening plan that fits your risk level.

Experiencing Discomfort? Schedule a Colonoscopy Near You Today!

Wondering where to get a colonoscopy? Looking for a colonoscopy test near you? Colon cancer is largely preventable when detected early through routine screening and colonoscopy.

Taking proactive steps today can save your life tomorrow. Don’t wait for symptoms—schedule your screening and take charge of your digestive health. Reach out to expert gastroenterologists for professional guidance, personalized care, and comprehensive colon cancer prevention strategies.

 

Get started with taking care of your health before it’s too late!