Colorectal Screening| Why it is Vital for Your Health
What is a Colorectal Screening?
A colorectal screening is a test is used by doctor to identify a disease even when a patient is not yet presenting symptoms.
Types of colon cancer screening tests often include:
· CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy)
· Flexible sigmoidoscopy
· Stool tests
Why Are These Tests Important?
Colorectal cancer is best treated early. In order for your physician to treat a potential colorectal cancer with the most successful outcome it is important to go in for screening tests.
During colorectal screening tests, healthcare professionals identify warning signs to help prevent a more serious illness down the road.
Many screenings uncover the presence of abnormal growths in the colon or the rectum. These growths (also known as precancerous polyps) are almost always a warning sign for colorectal cancer.
In identifying these warning signs early on, your doctor is able to address the polys by removing them before they develop in to cancer.
When Should I Go for My Colorectal Cancer Screening?
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommend that screening for colon cancer begins at age 50 and continue until age 75.
It is important to schedule your colon cancer screenings regularly with you doctor.
Adults between the ages of 76 to 85 should talk to their doctors about continued screening based on their individual healthcare history.
In certain cases, you may need to visit a doctor before age 50 for reasons including:
· You have inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis etc.)
· You or a relative have been treated for colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer
· You have a genetic syndrome prone to colorectal cancer
If you believe you are at risk for colorectal cancer be sure to contact your doctor to discuss when to begin screening and to develop a healthcare plan that fits your specific needs.
Contact Bowie Internal Medicine Associates today to schedule a screening. Call us at (301)-262-8188.