Colon cancer is the third leading form of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men and women across the United State. According to The American Cancer Society, approximately 152,810 new cases of colorectal cancer are expected to be diagnosed in 2024 and it is expected to cause about 53,010 deaths.
The good news is colon cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer, especially when detected early. This makes screening for colon cancer all the more crucial.
Screenings
Screenings are the number one method of preventing colon cancer. When cancer first develops, it is normal for a person to experience few to no symptoms at all. Screenings allow for doctors to discover cancerous growths before any possible symptoms occur.
Colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. It provides an in-depth look inside the colon and rectum and allows a physician to locate and remove any abnormal growths.
“Colonoscopies are recommended for patients over the age of 45 with general risk factors,” says Amjad Mreyoud, M.D., a gastroenterologist with Utica Park Clinic. "Patients are sedated by anesthesia and should not feel any discomfort during the exam. We also use CO2 insufflation during colonoscopies in most of our facilities to avoid post-procedure bloating and pain."
Along with age, other individual risk factors for colon cancer are:
- Previous history or family member with polyps or cancer
- Ulcerative colitis, primary biliary cholangitis or Crohn’s disease
- Family has a history of a genetic syndrome like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
- Previous cancer with radiation to the abdomen or pelvic area
In addition to screening, other steps a person can take to decrease their risk of colon cancer:
- Be aware of any family history of colon cancer or pre-cancerous polyps
- Schedule annual physical exams with your primary care provider
- Stop smoking and using tobacco products
- Monitor changes in bowel function
- Maintain a diet high in fiber and antioxidants, such as fresh vegetables and whole wheat foods
"Always remember, the five-year relative survival rate for colorectal cancer when detected at an early stage is 90 percent," says Dr. Mreyoud.
Utica Park Clinic offers open access for patients to schedule appointments and screenings with our gastroenterology providers with no referral necessary. To learn more about colon cancer prevention, screenings and to schedule an appointment, please click here or call the Utica Park Clinic Colon Cancer Screening Center at 918-579-4044. To learn more about Dr. Mreyoud, click here or call 918-294-6840.