Colon cancer is a deadly disease that can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. However, with early detection and treatment, the chances of survival increase significantly.

Preventive colon cancer screenings are essential in identifying and detecting colon cancer before it becomes advanced. This article will provide you with everything you need to know about preventive colon cancer screenings.

What is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, occurs when abnormal cells grow in the lining of the colon or rectum.

Colon cancer is the third most common type of cancer in both men and women and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. The disease can affect anyone, but the risk of developing colon cancer increases as we age.

Who is at Risk?

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing colon cancer. These include:.

Age: Individuals over the age of 50 are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer.
Personal or Family History: Individuals with a personal or family history of colon cancer or polyps are at a higher risk of developing the disease.
Genetic Syndromes: Certain genetic syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome or Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), can increase the risk of developing colon cancer.
Lifestyle Factors: An unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, and being overweight or obese can increase the risk of developing colon cancer.

What are Preventive Colon Cancer Screenings?

Colon cancer screenings are tests that can detect the early signs of colon cancer. These tests can identify the presence of polyps, which are abnormal growths in the colon that can eventually turn into cancer if left untreated.

Preventive colon cancer screenings are recommended for individuals at an average risk of developing colon cancer, starting at the age of 50.

For individuals with a higher risk of developing colon cancer, such as those with a personal or family history of colon cancer, screenings may start at an earlier age and be more frequent.

There are several types of colon cancer screenings, including:.

Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): This test checks for the presence of blood in the stool, which can be a sign of colon cancer or other digestive problems.
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): Similar to the FOBT, this test also checks for blood in the stool but uses antibodies to specifically detect human blood.
Colonoscopy: This exam allows the doctor to view the entire colon and rectum using a long, flexible tube with a camera attached.
Sigmoidoscopy: This exam is similar to a colonoscopy but only examines the lower part of the colon and rectum.
CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy): This test uses a CT scanner to create images of the colon and rectum.

What to Expect During a Preventive Colon Cancer Screening?

The procedure for a preventive colon cancer screening will depend on the type of test being performed. However, there are a few things you should expect:.

You will need to prepare for the test by following specific instructions, such as changing your diet and taking laxatives to empty your bowels before the exam.
The test may be uncomfortable, but it should not be painful. In some cases, sedation may be used to help you relax.
For a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, the doctor may remove polyps during the exam.
You may need to have someone drive you home and take the day off work or other activities following the exam, as you may experience discomfort or the effects of sedation.

Why are Preventive Colon Cancer Screenings Important?

Preventive colon cancer screenings are essential in identifying and detecting colon cancer before it becomes advanced. When colon cancer is detected early, the chances of successful treatment and survival increase significantly.

Additionally, certain types of colon cancer screenings can also detect polyps, which can be removed before they turn into cancer.

Conclusion

Colon cancer is a deadly disease that can be prevented with regular colon cancer screenings. If you are at an average risk of developing colon cancer, it is recommended that you start receiving preventive screenings starting at the age of 50.

If you are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer, talk to your doctor about when and how often you should receive screenings. Taking control of your health by getting regular colon cancer screenings can help detect colon cancer early, when it is most treatable.