A Colorectal Screening Could Change Your Life

Colorectal cancer is often called a "silent cancer" because there aren't always symptoms until the cancer is advanced. The cancer is preventable, and screenings can help catch it early when it's more treatable.

“If you’re 45 or older or have any family history of polyps or colon cancer,” says Drew Johnson, MD, a general surgeon at Saint Luke’s Hedrick Medical Center and Wright Memorial Hospital. “Don’t take your chances—get screened.”

A timely screening can detect cancer in very early stages when it’s most treatable, and a colonoscopy is the most common and most effective screening exam used to diagnose colorectal cancer. During the procedure, doctors use a camera to look for abnormal growths, or polyps, on the lining of the large intestine.  

A colonoscopy requires bowel prep that typically starts 24 hours prior to the procedure. In addition to diet restrictions, you will have to drink a special fluid to help clean out your colon.  

The American Cancer Society recommends people who are at average risk of colorectal cancer start regular screenings at the age of 45, but earlier screening may be recommended, depending on family history and medical conditions.

“Your colon must be fully clean to allow for the best visualization,” says Dr. Johnson. “It’s important to follow the prep instructions to avoid missed polyps and ensure the best possible results."

Polyps in the colon can take as many as 10 to 15 years to develop into cancer. During a colonoscopy, doctors can see inside the colon and remove small polyps before they have the chance to progress into cancer.

“We always try to remove any polyps found during the colonoscopy,” says Dr. Johnson. “If we find polyps or other abnormalities, you may need additional testing and visits.”

Patients who are at increased risk, experiencing symptoms, or have a family history of colorectal cancer may be referred to a gastroenterologist for more specialized care. 

Managing your risk and symptoms to know

Most cases of colorectal cancer are related to age and genetics, but you might be able to lower your risk by managing your diet and physical activity.  

If you are overweight, obese, or smoke, your risk of developing polyps and colorectal cancer is higher. You can lower your risk by:  

• Increasing physical activity
• Limiting red and processed meats  
• Eating more vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
• Limiting alcohol intake and quitting smoking

The frequency for follow-up screenings varies from person to person, depending on individual results and risk factors.

“The biggest warning sign is blood in the stool—that’s when you need to get help right away,” says Dr. Johnson.

Other common warning signs that raise concern can include:  

• Changes in your bowel habits
• Abdominal pain or cramps that don’t go away
• Unexplained weight loss

Contact your provider if you see any of these symptoms in between your regular screenings. 

At-home tests versus colonoscopies

If you are symptom-free and holding off on screening because you dread getting a colonoscopy, at-home stool-based tests are another option, but there are some important things to consider.

“A colonoscopy remains the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening for a reason,” says Dr. Johnson. “An at-home test can’t see inside your colon, and if the results are positive, a colonoscopy will be needed to follow up on a positive result.”

While Medicare and most private insurance plans cover the costs of colorectal cancer screenings, you should ask your insurance company how much you should expect to pay out-of-pocket. Find out if the amount could change based on what’s found and removed during a colonoscopy, and if you choose an at-home stool-based test, ask what a colonoscopy following a positive (abnormal) result would cost.

“Some insurers consider a colonoscopy following a positive at-home result as diagnostic, not screening,” says Dr. Johnson, “and it may not be fully covered. It’s important to ask questions about your coverage ahead of time, but don’t let that delay your decision to get screened. Like with any cancer, the earlier it’s detected, the better.”  

Talk to your primary care provider about a colonoscopy referral or call Hedrick Surgical Associates in Chillicothe at 660-646-2682 or Wright Memorial Hospital Specialty Clinic in Trenton at 660-358-5818.