Colon Cancer Screenings are Key to Good Health

March is colon cancer awareness month! In May of 2021 the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force issued new recommendations that people with average risk for colon cancer start screenings at age 45 instead of 50. The providers at CHPG Northwest Gastroenterology Specialist want to make sure that community members are aware of these changes and book an appointment for a colonoscopy consultation.

Colon cancer screenings are an important tool to catching colorectal cancers early. According to Dr. Ariana Greenwood, colon cancer is the third most common cause of cancer death in the U.S. for both men and women. The incidence of colon cancer is rising in people younger than 50 years of age, likely due to environmental factors. Dr. Greenwood said at their practice they find precancerous polyps in 40% of women and 60% of men with no family history of colon cancer or colon polyps. Most people do not have symptoms from these precancerous polyps or from colon cancer at all until it is in advanced stages. That is why it is so important to get your screenings done.

For adults with family history of colon cancer or polyps, the recommended age can decrease to 40 years or younger depending on individual circumstances. Adults without family history of colorectal cancer should be screened at the new recommended age of 45. If you are unsure about your family history, you can ask your primary care physician and they will help you determine when the best time is for you to start.

During your consultation with the gastroenterology department, they will answer all your questions and go over what you can expect from your colonoscopy procedure. Dr. Greenwood explained that the day before your procedure you will be on a clear diet; no solid food and will be asked to drink significant amounts of water. On the day of your procedure, you should plan to have someone drive you to and from your appointment. They will put you to sleep for the procedure, which only takes 15-20 minutes. Also, plan to take that day off work and have a family member keep you company for the day.

March is colon cancer awareness month, and since 1 in 24 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer, screenings are the best way for doctors to detect smaller, precancerous polyps which helps patients get treatments early and is most effective.

To schedule a consultation or get more information, please visit https:// www.centura.org/location/chpg-northwest-gastroenterology-specialists