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“THERE’S
really nothing to it.”
Elizabeth Lake, 63, is talking
about her third colonoscopy.
A colonoscopy can spot signs
of colorectal cancer in its earliest
stages. Better yet, doctors can remove
growths, or polyps, during the proce-
dure, before they can become cancer.
In other words, it not only checks
for cancer, it can actually prevent it.
Still, the nature of the procedure—
and the fact that it requires a
cleansed colon—can make people
skittish about scheduling it.
Lake had her first procedure done
at around 50. That’s the age when
colonoscopy is routinely recom-
mended for most people, according
to the American Cancer Society
(ACS).
All about colonoscopy
Questions and answers about this invaluable screening
Depending on your risk factors,
you may want to have your first test
earlier. Ask your doctor when and
how often you should have a colo-
noscopy. Doctors may also order the
test to help determine the reason for
some symptoms, including bleeding,
abdominal pain, unexplained weight
loss or changes in bowel habits.
Here are some answers to other
questions you may have about colo-
noscopy, courtesy of the ACS, the
American Gastroenterological Asso-
ciation and other health authorities.
Q.
What exactly is the colon?
A.
Your colon makes up the bulk
of your large intestine, which is
about 5 feet long. It absorbs miner-
als and water from the food you eat
and then sends the solid waste on
its way. The rectum—which is about
6 inches long—is the last stop on
this digestive journey before stool is
expelled.
Q.
What happens during
a colonoscopy?
A.
You’ll be given intravenous
medication to help you relax (the
sedative causes most people to sleep
through the procedure). Your doctor
will insert a long, flexible tube called
Fast facts about colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer is one of the deadliest types of cancer among Americans, according
to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Other facts about this type of cancer:
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It can develop at any age, but most cases occur in people 40 and older.
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After age 40, the risk for colorectal cancer doubles every 10 years.
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You’re at higher risk if your family has a history of the disease.
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Besides age, risk factors include a personal history of inflammatory bowel disease
or colon polyps.
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Colorectal cancer usually starts with polyp growth.
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Symptoms may include rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits.
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Finding and removing polyps during colonoscopy is an effective way to prevent
colorectal cancer.
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Screening for both men and women is recommended beginning at age 50.
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Cancer that is found early is generally most treatable.
Learn more at
www.cdc.gov/screenforlife
.
Learn more about colorectal cancer and what you can do to prevent it by going to
www.hrhs.org
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