Do I Need a Colonoscopy?
by Eileen O’Toole, C.R.N.P.
Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in America. The good news is that colon testing can lead to an earlier diagnosis or even prevention of colon cancer. All colon cancers start as adenomatous polyps. Over time, these polyps can become cancers. Colonoscopy can detect polyps and cancer very early, and even remove them.
Your physician can determine which type of testing is appropriate for you. The answer will depend upon your age, symptoms, personal and family health history and other risk factors. For instance, all persons over age 50 should get testing regularly. People with a personal or family history of colon cancer or other cancers may need testing before age 50 and more often than other persons. African Americans and Ashenazi Jews appear to have higher rates of colon cancer.
Some screening tests include colonoscopy, fecal occult blood test, flexible sigmoidoscopy and barium enema. Colonoscopy is the gold standard as it allows the doctor to see the entire colon and to remove polyps at that time. Each test has its particular advantages. These life-saving tests are more comfortable than ever and are covered by Medicare and most health insurers. It is important that you discuss your health risks and concerns with your doctor so that he can determine which testing is appropriate for you.
There are other things that a person can do to reduce his colon cancer risk, such as getting regular exercise, eating five or more servings of fruits and vegetables daily, staying at your ideal weight, avoiding tobacco and drinking alcohol in moderation, if at all. Taking care of your health can reduce your risk for colon cancer. However, even persons who feel fine and who take care of their health are at risk for colon cancer. Proper testing is necessary for everyone.
These proactive steps are especially important for persons in our community who require their medical care without transfusions. Surgery for colon cancer is a major surgical procedure. Timely testing may eliminate the need for surgery in the majority of patients.
