Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the third most common cancer worldwide. It usually originates from abnormal growths or polyps in the colon or rectum that can turn into cancer over time.

However, colon cancer is also one of the most preventable cancers through early screening and detection.

Why is screening important for colon cancer?

Colon cancer screening can detect colon polyps before they turn into cancer and can detect early-stage colon cancer when it’s highly treatable.

According to the American Cancer Society, regular screening can reduce colon cancer mortality by up to 60%.

When should women start colon cancer screening?

Colon cancer screening recommendations for women vary depending on the risk factors they have for colon cancer. The general guideline is to start screening at age 45 for average-risk individuals, including women.

However, some women may need to start screening earlier due to their medical history or family history of colon cancer or polyps.

Women at higher risk of colon cancer

Women who have a personal or family history of colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or certain genetic syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), are at higher risk of colon cancer.

These women should start colon cancer screening earlier and may need to be screened more frequently or through more advanced methods, such as colonoscopy.

Colon cancer screening methods

There are various colon cancer screening methods available that can detect colon polyps and early-stage cancer. Some of the recommended colon cancer screening methods for women include:.

Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT): This test checks for the presence of blood in the stool and is done every year.
Stool DNA test: This test checks for the presence of abnormal DNA in the stool and is done every 3 years.
Sigmoidoscopy: A flexible device is inserted into the rectum to examine the lower part of the colon, and it is done every 5 years.
Colonoscopy: A flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the colon and rectum to examine the entire colon, and it is done every 10 years.

How to prepare for colon cancer screening

The preparation needed for colon cancer screening depends on the type of screening test. However, most require a bowel prep to clean out the colon before the procedure.

It’s recommended to follow the instructions provided by the healthcare provider for each specific screening test.

Colon cancer screening for women during pregnancy

Colon cancer screening is not recommended during pregnancy, as some methods involve radiation or sedation.

However, women who are at high risk of colon cancer and need screening during pregnancy should consult their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate screening method that poses the lowest risk to the fetus.

Conclusion

Colon cancer screening is a vital step in preventing colon cancer or detecting it at its earliest and most treatable stages.

While the recommended age for women to start screening for colon cancer is 45, some women may need to start earlier due to their medical or family history of colon cancer or polyps. Women should discuss their risk factors and the most appropriate screening method with their healthcare provider.