Colorectal cancer – one of the most preventable forms of cancer – can be detected early through a screening program covered by most health insurance plans. A colonoscopy is a safe and effective outpatient test that takes roughly 30 minutes to perform. And, if any growths or polyps are discovered during the test, they can be removed at that time for further evaluation.
Colonoscopy for Colorectal Cancer Screening
While colonoscopy has proven to be the most important tool in the screening, diagnosis, and treatment for colorectal cancer, many people are reluctant to have this procedure – due to embarrassment and a fear of discomfort that is associated with the procedure. It is important to put aside these thoughts, as colonoscopy is a private and usually painless procedure.
The test requires preparation on the day before the procedure. The first step for the patient is to thoroughly clean out the colon and that, for many, can be the most difficult part of the entire process. Most often a liquid laxative preparation is taken orally and the patient is instructed not to eat anything during the 10 hours leading up to the test. It is important to follow this step carefully, because how well the bowel is emptied determines the success and accuracy of the test.
During the procedure, the patient is lightly sedated to decrease any discomfort. The gastroenterologist inserts the endoscope (a thin flexible tube that provides video images) through the anus and moves it gently through the colon. The endoscope displays real-time video that can be viewed on a monitor in the procedure room for evaluation. Additionally, if abnormal tissue or a polyp is discovered during this procedure, it may be removed at that time and sent for further miscroscopic testing.
After the test, patients are kept for observation until the sedative wears off, at which time they are escorted home by a family member or friend. Generally there is little or no discomfort after the test but patients may feel a bit of cramping and bloating or the need to have a bowel movement. By the following day, patients are able to resume normal daily activities.
It is recommended that every person over the age of 50 develop a screening schedule with their physician based on their own individual risk factors for colorectal cancer. Patients who have a family history of colorectal cancer, previous polyps, or certain gastrointestinal diseases may need to be screened at an earlier age or more frequently based on the advice of their physician.
Latest Endoscopic Treatments for Colorectal Cancer
Gastroenterologists at Brigham and Women’s/Faulkner Hospitals offer new endoscopic treatment for polyps and benign lesions and innovative stent techniques for cancer treatment as an alternative to surgery.
One new therapeutic endoscopy technique being performed at Brigham and Women’s Hospital is endoscopic mucosal resection, or EMR, an ideal alternative to conventional surgery for removing even very large polyps and benign lesions from any part of the digestive tract. The endoscope is fitted with a special device that suctions the tissue into a transparent cap, creating a lump of tissue that can then be snared and cut. EMR is also safe and effective for removing certain superficial cancers.
David L. Carr-Locke, MD, Director of Endoscopy, Brigham and Women’s Hospital; Daniel S. Matloff, MD, Chief of Gastroenterology, Faulkner Hospital
Colorectal Cancer: Risks and Symptoms
What Are the Risk Factors Associated with Colorectal Cancer?
There are factors that place a person at higher risk for colorectal cancer. They are:
- Age – According to the American Cancer Society, more than 90 percent of colorectal cancer cases are diagnosed in people over the age of 50.
- Polyps – Benign growths of the colon and rectum increase your risk, particularly if it is an inherited condition.
- Family history – If a first-degree relative in your family – a parent, sibling, or child – has had the disease or has had polyps, you are at higher risk.
- Diet – A diet that is high in red meat fats will place you at higher risk.
What are the Symptoms?
In the earliest stages of colorectal cancer, there are generally no symptoms. As the disease progresses, there are symptoms that may signal the presence of advanced colorectal cancer, including:
- Rectal bleeding
- Blood in the stool
- Change in bowel habits
- Cramping and pain in the lower abdomen.
Because colorectal cancer symptoms are revealed at a later stage of development, screening is crucial.
Call 1-877-BWF-5773 for more information or to schedule an appointment with a Brigham and Women’s Hospital or Faulkner Hospital specialist.
