Podcast Summary
Catch Colorectal Cancer Early for Successful Treatment: Regular screenings are crucial to catch colorectal cancer early and increase chances of successful treatment. Factors like diet and antibiotic use may contribute to its increase among younger people.
Colorectal cancer is a serious health issue that is on the rise among younger people, and it's important to get screened to catch it early. Colorectal cancer typically grows slowly over many years, and most cancers start out as a polyp. Removing a polyp early can prevent it from turning into cancer. If you do end up having colorectal cancer, it's treatable, especially when caught early. The National Cancer Institute considers colorectal cancer highly treatable and often curable when localized to the bowel. However, cancer can recur, and this is a major problem and is often the cause of death in people who die from colorectal cancer. This is more likely to happen if the cancer is diagnosed at a later stage. The American Cancer Society estimates that about 20000 Americans under age 50 will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer this year, and more than 37100 will die from it. Regular screenings are crucial to catch colorectal cancer early and increase the chances of successful treatment. The exact reasons for the increase in colorectal cancer cases among younger people are still being researched, but factors like diet and antibiotic use are being considered. Make sure to talk to your healthcare provider about when you should start getting screened and what the process entails.
Experts now recommend starting colorectal cancer screenings at age 45: Experts recommend early colorectal cancer screenings at age 45. Several options are available, including less invasive tests and colonoscopies. Early detection through regular screenings is crucial.
Experts now recommend starting colorectal cancer screenings at age 45. If you have a family history of the disease, you may need to start earlier. Several screening options are available, including less invasive stool tests like the fecal immunochemical test (FIT) and stool DNA test (Cologuard). A colonoscopy, which is more invasive but considered a gold standard, may be recommended for those at higher risk. During a colonoscopy, a doctor inserts a tube with a camera into the rectum to examine the entire colon. Polyps, which can be precancerous, are often removed during the procedure. Prep for a colonoscopy involves clearing the colon through diet and medication. Sedation options are available to make the procedure more comfortable. Remember, it's important not to ignore screening tests when they're sent, as early detection is key in treating colorectal cancer.
Undergoing a Colonoscopy: Essential Health Screening: Colonoscopies are crucial for preventing and detecting colon cancer through the identification and removal of polyps. Prepare for the procedure with a special diet and laxative drink, and consult a healthcare provider to discuss alternatives if necessary.
Despite the unpleasant preparation and experience, colonoscopies are an essential health screening that can prevent and detect colon cancer. The procedure involves a special diet and a laxative drink the night before to clear out the colon. Although the process can be uncomfortable and hunger-inducing, the benefits far outweigh the risks, as colonoscopies can identify and remove polyps that may develop into cancer. For those who prefer to avoid the colonoscopy, there are alternative stool tests, but it's crucial to consult a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable option based on individual circumstances and family history. The decision to undergo a colonoscopy or alternative screening method should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, and it's generally recommended to begin discussing options around age 40.
Prioritize colorectal cancer screening if 45 or older: Focus on a healthy diet, regular exercise, and prioritize colorectal cancer screening to reduce risk and catch early symptoms
If you're 45 or older, it's important to prioritize colorectal cancer screening. Your primary care doctor will typically initiate this process by sending you a test kit and instructions on how to use it. Early symptoms of colorectal cancer include blood in stool, changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, bloating, and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms and your doctor can't find an explanation, they may refer you to a gastroenterologist for further testing. To reduce your risk of colorectal cancer, focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber, while limiting processed meats, sugary drinks, and alcohol. Regular physical activity is also essential. Recent research suggests that dietary factors, particularly processed foods and sugary drinks, may contribute to the increase in colorectal cancer among younger people. So, make healthy choices, eat well, and stay active to support your overall health and reduce your risk of colorectal cancer.
Colonoscopies: Frequency and Symptoms: Individuals with a family history of cancer or polyps require frequent colonoscopies, while symptoms like blood in stool or unexplained weight loss warrant immediate medical attention.
Colonoscopies are typically recommended every 10 years, but individuals with a family history of cancer or polyps found during previous exams may need to undergo the procedure more frequently. Additionally, anyone experiencing symptoms of colorectal cancer, such as blood in their stool or unexplained weight loss, should consult a healthcare professional immediately. For further resources on effective communication with doctors and tips on reducing alcohol consumption, visit npr.org/lifekit. This episode of LIFE KIT was produced by Margaret Cirino, with engineering support from Hannah Glubna, Josh Newell, Valentino Rodriguez Sanchez, and others. Sponsored messages were from Charles Schwab's Choiceology podcast and Silicon Valley Bank.
