Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The thought of facing a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but fortunately, it’s highly treatable when detected early. Screening can help identify precancerous polyps or early-stage cancer before symptoms develop.
Colorectal Cancer Screening
The American Cancer Society recommends that individuals begin screening at age 45 with one of the following screening tests:
- Colonoscopy every 10 years
- CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) every 5 years
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years
- Double-contrast barium enema every 5 years
Your doctor may recommend screenings earlier and more frequently if you have an increased risk of colorectal cancer.
Factors that increase the risk of colorectal cancer include:
- A personal history of colorectal cancer, polyps or inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)
- A known family history of hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis
- A known family history of hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome, such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome (hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer)
What to Expect During A Colorectal Cancer Screening
When it comes to screening for colorectal cancer, it’s normal to have mixed feelings. You might wonder what to expect during the screenings. Whether it’s a simple test like the FOBT or FIT tests or more invasive procedures like a colonoscopy or CT colonography, each screening method operates differently and offers different insight important in detecting cancer.
What are my options for colorectal cancer screening at NGMC?
Northeast Georgia Medical Center offers a spectrum of colorectal cancer screening and imaging services including the following:
- Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) and Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) – During a FIT or FOBT test, your stool sample is collected and sent to a lab for analysis. This test will detect if there is a presence of blood in the stool that could indicate polyps in the colon or colorectal cancer.
- Colonoscopy – During a colonoscopy, you will be sedated to make you more comfortable. Then a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the rectum to examine the colon. Your doctor will be able to visualize the colon lining, identify polyps, and even potentially remove them during the procedure for further analysis.
- CT Colonography – CT colonography is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses CT scans to create detailed images of the colon and rectum. During the test you will like on a table that moves through a CT scanner which produces detailed 3D images of the colon.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy – This exam is used to examine the lower part of the large intestines only, specifically the rectum and the sigmoid colon. Similar to a colonoscopy, you will be sedated while a flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the rectum to exam the lower colon.
- Double-Contrast Barium Enema – This is a type of x-ray procedure where a barium liquid is inserted into the rectum to help create contrast on the imaging to show abnormalities.
Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis
At NGMC we understand the challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. If screening tests indicate the presence of cancer, we are here to support you every step of the way. Our multidisciplinary team will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Your well-being is our top priority.
Additionally, NGMC provides free patient navigation services to assist you with financial support, nutrition assistance and transportation arrangements. If you have questions or need assistance throughout your cancer journey, our patient navigators can help you.
Contact Us Today
Cancer screening can raise a lot of questions, but you don’t have to face them alone. If you have questions about colorectal screening, our knowledgeable team is here to address your concerns and provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your health.
For more information about colorectal cancer screenings and diagnostics available at the Northeast Georgia Medical Center, call 770-219-8815.