Colon cancer is a type of cancer that affects the large intestine or the rectum. It is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States, and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. However, with early detection and treatment, the chances of surviving colon cancer are high. This is where colon cancer screening plays a vital role.
Colon cancer screening is the process of looking for cancer or precancerous polyps in the colon or rectum. It is recommended for both men and women starting at the age of 45, and earlier for individuals with certain risk factors such as a family history of colon cancer or certain genetic conditions.
There are different methods of colon cancer screening, including stool tests, colonoscopies, sigmoidoscopies, and virtual colonoscopies. Each method has its pros and cons, and your doctor can help you decide which test is best for you based on your age, risk factors, and personal preferences.
It is important to get screened for colon cancer because early detection can lead to early treatment, which can greatly increase your chances of survival. In fact, colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers through screening. By detecting and removing precancerous polyps before they become cancerous, colon cancer can be prevented altogether.
In addition, if colon cancer is detected early, it is more likely to be treated successfully. The five-year survival rate for colon cancer that is caught early is around 90%. However, if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, the five-year survival rate drops to around 14%.
At New Leaf Online, we are committed to helping our patients prevent and detect colon cancer through regular screening. We offer a range of colon cancer screening options and work with our patients to develop a personalized screening plan that fits their individual needs and preferences.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you’re due for a colon cancer screening or have any concerns about your risk for colon cancer, make an appointment with Dr. Adams at New Leaf Online today. Together, we can help you stay healthy and catch any potential health issues early.
-Dr. Kyle Adams
