Colonoscopy: Why is it Important?

Colonoscopy is a highly effective method for colorectal cancer screening. This procedure is crucial because it allows for the detection of cancers at an early, curable stage, as well as polyps (small growths) before they can develop into cancer. If you are 50 years old or older, or have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, undergoing a colonoscopy is strongly recommended. Continue reading to learn more about this procedure and its importance in preserving your well-being.

 

Colonoscopy in Colorectal Cancer Screening

 

Why Get a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a medical examination performed to detect cancer of the colon or rectum. The colon, which plays a vital role in our digestive system by absorbing water and nutrients from food, is also responsible for storing waste that later becomes our stool. This waste passes from the colon to the rectum before leaving the body. Colon cancer presents several signs, including a change in bowel habits (often constipation), blood in the stool, feeling like you haven't completely emptied your bowels, persistent pain or gas. It can also cause weight loss, very narrow stools, weakness and fatigue. Unfortunately, these symptoms usually only appear when the cancer is at an advanced stage. This type of cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and women. However, when detected early, the survival rate is 90%.

 

How to Identify Precursor Signs of Colorectal Cancer?

There are various signs that may indicate possible colorectal cancer. While some of these symptoms may be related to minor issues, it's crucial to remain cautious if you suspect cancer.

 

The following symptoms are often associated with this disease:

• Abdominal pain;
• Bloating;
• Chronic fatigue;
• Blood in the stool;
• Diarrhea;
• Constipation;
• A change in bowel habits;
• Weight loss;
• Cramps;

You're probably wondering when it's necessary to have a colonoscopy? If you experience any of the listed symptoms for a prolonged period or if they worsen, it's recommended to consult a doctor and schedule the procedure.

 

What are other screening tests for colon cancer?

There are other ways to detect the presence of colon cancer:

• The fecal occult blood test (FOBT) is a method to detect the presence of blood in a stool sample. This test should be performed annually;
• The fecal immunochemical test (FIT) uses antibodies to detect the presence of blood in your stool. It is also performed once a year;
• The FIT-DNA test combines the FIT with a second test that looks for altered (cancerous) DNA in your stool. It is performed every 1 to 3 years;
• Computed tomography colonography uses X-rays and computers to give your doctor images of your entire colon to analyze;
• A sigmoidoscopy is similar to a colonoscopy, but it examines your rectum and only part of your colon. It can be performed by a primary care physician and doesn't involve sedation. However, you still need to prepare your bowels beforehand;

If a polyp is discovered, you will still need to have a colonoscopy to have it removed. The same is true if blood is found in your stool. This is why colonoscopy is recognized as the gold standard test, offering both detection and treatment.

 

When Should I Have a Colonoscopy?

Your doctor might suggest having your first colonoscopy at age 45, as the majority of colorectal cancer cases generally affect older individuals. However, if one of your close relatives (parent, sibling, or child) has already been affected by this disease, you may be asked to have a colonoscopy earlier. But don't worry, this procedure will only be necessary once every ten years, unless your doctor detects polyps during the first colonoscopy. In this case, a second examination may be recommended within 3 to 5 years.

 

How Often Should I Have a Colonoscopy After Polyp Removal?

Polyps are small growths of tissue that form in your colon. While they are usually benign and easy to remove, polyps called adenomas have a higher risk of becoming cancerous and should be removed. The surgical procedure to remove polyps is called polypectomy and can be performed during a colonoscopy if your doctor detects one. Most doctors recommend a colonoscopy within 5 years of a polypectomy and every two years if you are at high risk of developing adenomas.

 

What are the Risks and Side Effects Associated with Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is known to be a safe and non-invasive procedure. However, some risks still exist. Most of the time, the risk is outweighed by the benefit of identifying and treating cancer or other intestinal diseases. Here are some risks and side effects:

• Severe abdominal pain;
• Internal bleeding from an area where tissue or a polyp has been removed;
• Tear, perforation, or injury to the colon or rectum (very rare);
• Adverse reaction to anesthesia or a sedative used;
• Heart failure in reaction to substances used;
• Blood infection that needs to be treated with medication;
• Emergency surgery needed to repair any damaged tissue;
• Death (also very rare);

 

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