By Dr. Radu Constantine, a member of the medical staff at Kentucky River Medical Center
March is recognized as Colon Cancer Awareness Month, a time to remind people about the importance of screening and early detection. Over the years, I have had many conversations with patients about colon cancer, and the same questions often come up.
One of the most common things patients say is, “I feel fine, so I don’t need a colonoscopy.” In reality, colonoscopies are designed for people who feel perfectly healthy. During the exam, physicians can find and remove small growths in the colon called polyps. These polyps can develop into cancer over time but removing them early can prevent that from happening.
Current guidelines recommend that everyone begin screening for colon cancer at age 45, regardless of how healthy they feel.
Another frequent question involves family history. Patients often ask if they are at risk because an older relative developed colon cancer late in life. In many cases, cancers diagnosed at an advanced age are considered the patient’s own cancer rather than a hereditary one. However, if colon cancer occurs at a young age, for example, in someone in their 30s or early 40s—it may suggest a genetic risk.
In those cases, screening recommendations may change. Family members may be advised to begin colonoscopy screening 10 years earlier than the age at which the youngest family member was diagnosed. In addition, tumors today are often analyzed to determine whether genetic testing might be recommended for relatives.
Patients also ask whether other types of cancer increase their risk of colon cancer. A personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer can sometimes be associated with higher risk. Other cancers, such as lung, prostate, cervical, or most skin cancers, generally do not increase colon cancer risk.
Certain symptoms should prompt you to discuss with your doctor whether a colonoscopy is needed. These include unexplained anemia, persistent changes in bowel habits, ongoing diarrhea or constipation, blood in the stool, black or tarry stools, or persistent abdominal pain. In some cases, these symptoms should be evaluated urgently, sometimes even in an emergency department.
Another concern people often mention is the preparation before the procedure. Many have heard that the preparation drink is unpleasant. However, newer preparations are much easier to tolerate than in the past.
Finally, patients frequently ask whether they need a referral to see a specialist for a colonoscopy. In many cases, they do not. Because colon cancer screening is strongly recommended, many insurance plans allow patients to schedule consultations directly.
Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when detected early. Screening saves lives by finding and removing precancerous growths before they have the chance to develop into cancer.
To schedule a consultation or learn more about colon cancer screening, call Dr. Constantine’s office at 606-666-6160 or 606-666-6600 to make an appointment.