Colorectal cancer may not be something you think about on a regular basis, and the thought of getting screened for the disease may have you thinking “not me—I don’t want to do that!” But like I tell many of my patients, getting a regular colorectal cancer screening is one of the best and easiest things you can do to prevent this disease.
Unfortunately, most people don’t get early warning signs if they have colorectal cancer. Even if there are signs, they may resemble other conditions, like irritable bowel syndrome or even hemorrhoids, so it may not prompt them to have a doctor check for cancer. That’s why many people who have colorectal cancer (and don’t get screened regularly) don’t find out until the cancer is advanced—and why colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer behind lung cancer.
When should I begin colorectal cancer screenings?
Nearly 90% of colorectal cancer occurs in people who are age 50 or older, but cases in younger adults have been rising. Doctors now recommend that people at average risk for colorectal cancer get screened beginning at age 45.
If you are at an increased risk for the dis- ease, it may be recommended that you begin screening at a younger age. Even if you have no signs of colorectal cancer, you should still be screened. You may have a higher risk of colon cancer if you:
• Are of certain race or ethnic background, such as African American or Jewish
• Have a fam- ily history of col- orectal cancer or polyps (growths in the large intes- tine), or previous colorectal cancer
• Have inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcer- ative colitis
• Eat a diet high in fat, red meat, or alcohol
• Have a history of tobacco use
Do I have options when it comes to colorectal cancer screenings?
The short answer is “yes.” There are differ- ent options that you can talk to your doctor about. Colonoscopy is considered the best of these options as it allows us to prevent as well as diagnose colon cancer.
Why is screening so important?
Since colorectal cancer typically doesn’t result in noticeable symptoms until more advanced stages, it may be too late to treat it successfully if you wait until you have symp-toms. Actress Kirstie Alley was diagnosed only shortly before she passed away in December 2022 from the disease. Chadwick Boseman, “Black Panther” film star, lost his battle with colon cancer at the age of 43 after being diag- nosed with an advanced stage of the disease a few years earlier.
Colorectal cancer screenings can find can- cer at an early stage, before symptoms may be present. This makes it more easily treatable. Screenings may also detect abnormalities that may become cancerous in the future, such as polyps. If found during a colonoscopy, these can be removed before cancer develops. When this happens, the screening can be considered to have prevented the disease from occurring at all.
Colorectal cancer screenings can find cancer at an early stage, before symptoms may be present. This makes it more easily treatable.
The best thing to do is talk to your doctor about your family history. If you’re 45 or older or have a family history of colon cancer, you should schedule an appointment for a colonos- copy screening today. It’s best not to delay this screening because it could save your life.
You can find progressive, comprehensive care for your colorectal health in LA County at PIH Health. PIH Health offers effective diagnostic tests and advanced treatment options to help you feel better and prevent future health problems. To learn more, visit PIHHealth.org/Colon or call (562) 967-2656 to schedule an appointment.
Ashwin Ashook MD is a member of the PIH Health’s Digestive Health Services team, a group of experts specializing in gastrointestinal health. To find a PIH Health Physician near you, visit PIHHealth.org/Find-a-Doctor.
