Colon Cancer Screening- Kuaj Khees-xaws Ntawm Txoj Nyhuv Loj

9/14/20242 min read

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the large intestine, also known as the colon. It’s one of the most common types of cancer, but the good news is that it’s often preventable through regular screening. Screening means checking for signs of cancer before you have any symptoms. In this blog, we’ll talk about why colon cancer screening is important, who should get screened, and what you can expect from the process. (The video above focuses on the stool DNA+ blood test, Cologuard. Disclosure: I do not get pay for using Cologuard's product in this video or blog.)

Why is Colon Cancer Screening Important?

Screening for colon cancer is crucial because it can help catch the disease early when it’s easier to treat. In some cases, screening can even prevent cancer from developing in the first place. This is because colon cancer usually starts as small growths called polyps inside the colon. Over time, some polyps can turn into cancer. Screening tests can find and remove these polyps before they become dangerous.

Who Should Get Screened?

Most people should start getting screened for colon cancer at age 45. However, if you have a higher risk—such as a family history of colon cancer, a personal history of polyps, or certain genetic conditions—you might need to start screening earlier. It’s important to talk to your doctor about when to start screening and how often you should be tested.

Types of Colon Cancer Screening Tests

There are several different tests used to screen for colon cancer. Here are some of the most common ones:

Colonoscopy:
- What it is: A doctor uses a long, flexible tube with a camera on the end to look at the inside of your colon.
- What to expect: You’ll be given medication to help you relax or sleep during the test. If the doctor finds any polyps, they can be removed right away.
- How often: Every 10 years if no polyps are found.
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT):
- What it is: A test that checks for hidden blood in your stool, which can be a sign of cancer.
- What to expect: You’ll take a small sample of your stool at home and send it to a lab for testing.
- How often: Every year.
Stool DNA Test:
- What it is: This test looks for changes in the DNA of your stool that could indicate cancer.
- What to expect: Similar to the FIT, you’ll collect a stool sample at home and mail it to a lab.
- How often: Every 3 years.
CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy):
- What it is: A special type of CT scan that takes pictures of your colon.
- What to expect: It’s less invasive than a regular colonoscopy, but if any polyps are found, you’ll need a regular colonoscopy to remove them.
- How often: Every 5 years.

Preparing for Your Screening

If you’re having a colonoscopy, you’ll need to prepare by following a special diet and taking a laxative the day before to clean out your colon. This ensures that the doctor can see clearly during the test. For stool tests, the preparation is easier, as you just need to follow the instructions for collecting the sample.

What Happens After the Screening?

If your screening test comes back normal, you won’t need another test for several years. If the test finds polyps or other changes, your doctor will talk to you about next steps, which might include removing the polyps or doing more tests.

Conclusion

Colon cancer screening is a simple but powerful tool that can save lives by detecting cancer early or preventing it altogether. If you’re 45 or older, or if you’re at higher risk, talk to your doctor about getting screened. It’s one of the best things you can do to protect your health.

Remember, the sooner colon cancer is found, the easier it is to treat. Don’t wait—get screened! See your doctor for medical advice!