Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in men and women in the United States, excluding skin cancers.  The death rate from colorectal cancer has been dropping over the last 15 years.  One reason for this is probably due to screening colonoscopies and colon cancer is being found earlier when it is easier to cure and treatments have improved.

            Cancer developing in the colon or rectum usually develops slowly over a period of years.  Before a cancer develops, usually it starts as a non-cancerous polyp which is an abnormal growth of tissue lining the colon or rectum.  A specific type of polyp, called an adenoma, has the greatest risk of becoming a cancer.

            A colonoscopy is a procedure used to see inside the colon and rectum and is considered the procedure of choice for colon cancer screening.  “Screening for colon cancer is so important because colorectal cancer is often present in people without presenting symptoms,” states Dr. Bruce Heare, a gastroenterologist with WTMA.  The following signs or symptoms might indicate colorectal cancer and should be checked out:

• Blood in stools
• Narrower than normal stools
• Unexplained abdominal pain
• Unexplained change in bowel habits
• Unexplained anemia
• Unexplained weight loss

          Regular screening can help prevent colorectal cancer through diagnosis at an early and curable stage or through removal of precancerous polyps.  Beginning at age 50, both men and women at average risk for developing colorectal cancer should have a screening colonoscopy and then repeat this in 10 years.  If any abnormalities are found you will need to repeat the procedure within an earlier time frame. 

          If you have any questions about colorectal cancer or colonoscopy, consult your healthcare provider.  You may contact Dr. Heare’s office to schedule an appointment at 325.224.5291. 

Download File: C99.php