Editor’s note: This is the second of a two-part series on the month of March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Colorectal cancer is preventable. Screening is the best way to improve chances of survival through early detection.
The American Cancer Society’s National Colorectal Cancer goal is to reach colorectal cancer screening rates of 80 percent and higher in all communities across the nation. Our community has not reached this goal yet and there is a lot of work to be done. More awareness is needed to encourage more patients to get screened.
What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer?
Early cancers don’t show any symptoms.
Advanced cancers show up as rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits, weight loss, abdominal pains.
Screening is defined as testing a patient who has no symptoms. Early detection of cancer in non-symptomatic patients is the best way to reduce mortality of preventable disease.
Who should get screened?
Age is the most important risk factor, with screening recommended for individuals ages 45-75. Seventy-five percent of colon cancer patients don’t have a family history of colon cancer.
Why was the starting age changed from age 50 to age 45 in average risk population?
There has been increasing incidence of early onset colorectal cancer. Ten percent of all new diagnoses of this cancer, with accompanying increase in mortality, has been noted since 1988. It is estimated that 25 percent of rectal cancers and 10 to 12 percent of colon cancers will be diagnosed in persons younger than age 50 in the years to come. By 2030, the incidence is projected to be higher. Most times the tumors are advanced, leading to higher risk of morbidity and mortality.
When should you get screened earlier than age 45?
Knowing your immediate family history is very important. If any member of the family ever had a colorectal polyp or cancer before the age of 60, screening should start at 40. If earlier than 45, screening will start 10 years prior to the diagnoses of the immediate family member.
Approximately 25 percent of patients with early onset colorectal cancer have hereditary syndromes. Genetic studies are always advised on the tumors or blood tests on these patients to assess the risk as to whether their immediate relatives may need to be tested for the same genes. These patients may need to be screened in their teenage years or in their 20s. Delayed diagnoses in younger patients and presentation with advanced disease stages underscores the need for greater awareness of this disease on the part of the general community as well as the healthcare providers.
Remember, colorectal cancer is preventable and can be detected early enough to save your life. Don’t wait to develop colorectal cancer.
Gastroenterologist Dr. Kwadwo Agyei-Gyamfi is affiliated in private practice with Acme Medical Specialties in Lumberton and is a member of the UNC Health Southeastern Medical Staff.
