How Colonoscopy Screenings Help Prevent Colon Cancer
9/26/2023
VICTORIA, Texas – According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Despite being preventable and treatable, many individuals still die from this disease due to a lack of awareness about preventive care.
DeTar Hospital is committed to promoting early detection and prevention of colon cancer through regular colonoscopy screenings because, when detected early, the survival rate for colon cancer is approximately 90%.
During this non-invasive procedure, doctors examine the colon and rectum for pre-cancerous polyps, which can be removed during the same process, reducing the risk of developing colon cancer in the future. They also can screen for cancer. This is important, as studies show those who undergo regular screenings are less likely to die from colon cancer.
Many people fear that there might be discomfort and pain associated with a colonoscopy. However, it’s important to know that you will be in a “twilight sleep.” Unlike general anesthesia, which puts patients to sleep completely, conscious sedation keeps patients drowsy and comfortable, yet awake enough to respond to questions and follow instructions.
"Colonoscopies are the best proven method not only to diagnose colon cancer but also to find and remove polyps that may become cancerous. The recommended age to begin screening has recently been lowered from 50 to 45 years of age because of the recognized benefit of early detection." said Dr. Mark Tullos, general surgeon. “Don’t delay in having this life-saving procedure done.”
Colonoscopy screening should start at 45 for those at average risk, with regular screenings continuing every 10 years. However, the screening frequency and start date may differ for individuals at higher risk of developing the disease, as colorectal cancer incidence is higher in certain populations, including Black and Indigenous adults, people with a family history of colorectal cancer and men.
In addition, researchers have observed a noticeable increase in cases and fatalities in the 20 to 49 age group over the last 20 years. The cause behind this trend, however, remains uncertain and demands further examination.
Age also plays a big factor when it comes to risk. On average, those 50 and older are the most likely to suffer from colorectal cancer. Men are typically diagnosed around 68, while women tend to be 72. Both men and women with rectal cancer usually are diagnosed at 63.
While age and family history cannot be changed, there are several lifestyle factors that you can modify to lower your risk, including losing weight, maintaining a healthy diet, limiting alcohol, quitting smoking and regular exercise.
“Colonoscopies have revolutionized how we detect and prevent colon cancer. With advancements in technology and improved patient comfort, there’s no better time than now to prioritize your colon health,” adds Dr. Tullos. “Early detection is key, and a screening colonoscopy could save your life.”
Talk to your healthcare provider about your risk level and the appropriate timing and frequency of screenings. Remember, you’re never too young to take charge of your health.
Mark Tullos, M.D., is a board-certified general surgeon offering a range of general surgery procedures and techniques. He specializes in minimally invasive procedures, including laparoscopic surgery, for both benign and malignant diseases, upper and lower endoscopy procedures and has a special interest in the evaluation and treatment of reflux disease (GERD) and other GI problems.
Services include:
- Appendectomy
- Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal)
- Colectomy
- Colonoscopy
- Cyst removal
- Dialysis access
- Diverticulitis treatment
- Gastrointestinal surgery
- Hernia repair
- Mastectomy and breast biopsy
- Mediport implantation
- Peritoneal dialysis catheter insertion
- Reflux surgery
- Removal of skin lesions
- Splenectomy
- Thyroid/parathyroid surgery
Most insurance plans accepted, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Same-week appointments are often available.
Back