Make Strides Against Colon Cancer
Friday, March 16th, 2018
Take The First Step To Fight Colon Cancer: Please Get Screened
Even though the death rate from colorectal cancer has been dropping for the past 30 years, it is still the second-leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States.
March is National Colon Cancer Awareness Month and at Edina Sports + Family Medicine we believe awareness leads to screening and we know that early detection can save lives.
When found at an early stage before it has spread, the 5-year relative survival rate for colon cancer is about 90%. But only about 4 out of 10 colorectal cancers are found at this early stage.
According to The American Cancer Society, preventing colorectal cancer (and not just finding it early) should be a major reason for getting tested. Most colon cancers develop first as polyps, which are abnormal growths inside the colon or rectum that may later become cancerous if not removed.
Starting at age 50 everyone should be screened for colon cancer and this exam is covered under most health insurance plans under preventive medicine. Check with your health plan provider if you are unsure. The best tests for finding either polyps or cancer are:
- Colonoscopy every 10 years (The Gold Standard)
- CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) every 5 years*
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years*
- Double-contrast barium enema every 5 years*
* A colonoscopy should be performed if any of these are positive
If you are at an increased risk of colorectal cancer, you might need to start screening before age 50 and be screened more often. Talk with your doctor about a personal history – or a family history – of colorectal cancer, polyps or inflammatory bowel disease.
Please Get Screened. Colon cancer is preventable or curable if caught early.
At Edina Sports + Family Medicine, we care about all aspects your health:
952-926-6489
Learn More About Colon Cancer Awareness Month and Things You can Do To Increase Awareness At Work Or In Your Community.
