Colorectal Cancer Awareness- No more excuses
One day can save your life.
Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related deaths in the United States. Although colorectal cancer is a common and deadly cancer, there are highly effective screening techniques. Colonoscopy is the most effective screening tool for the prevention of colorectal cancer. Colonoscopies are done to not only diagnose cancer causing polyps but also to remove them. This removal of the polyps is what reduces colon cancer risk.
The current colorectal screening criteria for non-symptomatic people are:
- A man or woman 50 years or older
- A personal or family history of inflammatory bowel disease
- Have a close family member with colorectal cancer
- Smoking
- Being overweight
- A personal history of polyps or colon cancer
- A personal or family history of breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer
According to the colorectal cancer alliance, 10% of colorectal cancer cases are diagnosed in people under the age of 50 in the United States. Some insurance companies are allowing earlier screening colonoscopies starting at the age of 45, so it is very important to call your insurance company to find out when you are eligible.
Individuals under the age of 50 should be screened earlier when there are:
- A family history of colorectal cancer or advanced adenomas (noncancerous tumors)
- A hereditary genetic syndrome associated with increased risk
- Inflammatory bowel disease or other conditions increasing risk
And most importantly, for people of ALL AGES, if you are having symptoms that may be consistent with colorectal cancer call your gastroenterologist and get screened!
These symptoms include but are not limited to:
- Blood in stool
- Rectal bleeding
- Constipation
- Bloated stomach
- Abdominal Pain
- Fatigue
It is being predicted that because of the COVID-19 pandemic, reduced screenings and delays in colonoscopies will lead to an increased number of colorectal cancer and later stage colorectal cancer diagnoses.
Hunterdon Gastroenterology Associates and Hunterdon Endosurgery Center have implemented the most current guidelines from the State of New Jersey and the CDC to keep our patients safe. Measures include:
- Strict employee protocols that include proper hand hygiene, face masks, eye protection, and appropriate employee health monitoring
- COVID testing for all patients scheduled for procedures
- Social distancing measures
- Restricting visitors/ companions to reduce potential exposure to others. (Individuals who require assistance will be permitted to remain with the patient.)
- Everyone is required to wear a face mask.
No more excuses!
Do not delay your colorectal screening any longer!
One day can save your life.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7553028/
https://www.ccalliance.org/about/never-too-young/know-the-facts
