Colorectal Cancer Screening
Don't Wait Until It's Too Late
The US Preventive Services Task Force Recommends Adults Between Ages 45-75 Be Screened For Colorectal Cancer
What is colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer (or colon cancer) is cancer of the colon and/or rectum. It is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women and the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the US.
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Most colorectal cancers start as a growth, called a polyp, on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Polyps are quite common, and most are benign or noncancerous. Some polyps are precancerous and may grow slowly (around 10 years) to become a cancer. Colorectal cancer can be prevented by finding polyps before they have time to transform into cancer.
What is colorectal cancer screening?
Colorectal cancer screening is done when you are feeling well - to detect or find any abnormalities early, before signs and symptoms of disease occur. Screening for colorectal cancer allows for early detection of cancer when it is highly curable, as well as the detection and removal of precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer. Early colorectal cancer does not always cause symptoms, which is why routine screening is essential. Studies show that colorectal cancer screening lowers the chance of dying from colon cancer.
What are the colorectal cancer screening recommendations?
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults aged 45 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer. You may need to begin screening earlier than age 45 if you have:
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​A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
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Inflammatory Bowel Disease such as Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn's Disease
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A familial syndrome such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome (HNPCC)
How can I get screened for colorectal cancer?
Several screening tests can be used to find polyps or colorectal cancer. Be sure to make an appointment with Dr. Chung to discuss which option is best for you:
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Colonoscopy
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Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
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Stool tests including gFOBT, FIT, and stool DNA (Cologuard)
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CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy)
What is a colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a procedure used to look at the inside lining of the colon and rectum with a colonoscope, which is a long, flexible tube about the width of a finger with a light and small video camera on one end. It is inserted through the anus and into the rectum and colon. Special instruments can be passed through the colonoscope to biopsy or remove any suspicious areas such as polyps. The procedure is performed under anesthesia and usually takes about 15-30 minutes.
Why does a colonoscopy offer the best screening choice?
A colonoscopy is the only test to prevent colorectal cancer. During the procedure, precancerous polyps can be removed, preventing them from growing into colon cancer. The test can also detect colon cancer early before it turns into an advanced stage. More treatment options are available and survival rates are better with early detection. Other screening tests such as stool tests detect cancer after it has already formed. That means the cancer can be at a more advanced stage when it is more difficult to treat.​