The Importance of Screening in Treating and Preventing Colorectal Cancer

What exactly is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer is when an abnormal growth of cells develops in the colon or the rectum. The rectum is the last part of the large intestines that connects the colon to the anus. This abnormal growth is also malignant, or cancerous, and can spread to direct organs around it or distantly.

How is it detected?

The best screening tool is a visual screening tool called a colonoscopy. Not only does this small tube with a light on it detect abnormal growths in the colon and rectum, but it can also prevent colorectal cancer by removing abnormal growths while they are still benign, or called polyps. While other screenings are available, including stool-based and blood-based tests, they are not preventive, and should the results be abnormal, those screening must be followed up with a colonoscopy to confirm a diagnosis.

When should I be screened?

An increase in colon and rectal cancer developing in younger people over the past twenty years has prompted the American Cancer Society and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force to recommend screening begin at the age of 45. However, those who have a personal history of polyps, a family history of polyps or colorectal cancer, or an inherited gene such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) should be screened at least 10 years earlier than their youngest diagnosed family member. These people should also speak with their health care provider about genetic testing to better determine their risk.

Why are prevention and early detection so important?

Approximately 50% of colorectal cancer that develops is due to lifestyle factors. Adopting healthy habits — such as exercising 30 minutes a day, five days a week; minimizing alcohol use; choosing a Mediterranean or plant-based diet over a diet of red meat and processed foods; avoiding tobacco use and maintaining a healthy weight — can lower your risk of developing colorectal cancer. Routine screening through colonoscopy can also prevent colorectal cancer and detect it early when it is often curable. Colonoscopy is not the only screening test for colon and rectal cancer; many other effective stool-based tests are available. The best screening test is the one you will complete. Colorectal cancer screening saves lives.

Lannis Hall, MD, MPH, is the director of radiation oncology at Siteman Cancer Center on the campus of Barnes-Jewish St Peters Hospital. You can reach Dr. Hall by calling 636.916.9920.