by William M. Healy, MD
You have successfully avoided cleaning out your basement for years and rest triumphantly in your ability to procrastinate. “I’ll get to it eventually” has become your mantra. But, some things shouldn’t be avoided, even if they aren’t your favorite pastime. So let’s get serious for a moment.
Colorectal cancer is a killer that can be avoided by regular screenings. Studies suggest up to 90% of colon cancers can be prevented. Yes, in 2011, over 132,000 new cases of colon cancer were diagnosed with nearly 52,000 people dying from this disease. Both men and women are similarly affected, making colon cancer the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States.
Why does colon cancer develop? The innermost lining of your colon contains specialized cells that are constantly dividing and regenerating. Should some process interfere with the DNA within one of those cells, an abnormal growth, such as a polyp, could develop. Age, family history of colon cancer and polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, and certain inherited diseases are risk factors. A diet high in fats and low in fiber, smoking, excessive alcohol, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, diabetes mellitus, and even low Vitamin D levels are contributing factors.
Colon and rectal polyps are called “adenomas” and are precancerous. Research performed at John Hopkins reveals that over 95% of colorectal cancers develop directly from an adenoma. Fortunately, most adenomas never become cancerous and those that do require many years for cancer to develop. Current theories are that it would take about 10 years for a small adenoma to develop into colorectal cancer, which is why regular screenings are so important. Whenever a colon or rectal adenoma is removed from your bowel, it no longer can become cancerous.
Colorectal cancer screening is recommended at age 50, but new guidelines advise African Americans to begin at age 45. Individuals at increased risk should consult their health care professional regarding when to begin screening. Colonoscopy is the preferred screening method since adenomas are removed during the procedure. Some people are fearful of colonoscopy, but these fears should be put to rest. Western New York physicians who perform colonoscopies are highly trained, and use state-of-the-art equipment, and conscious sedation has made colonoscopy virtually painless. For patients who refuse colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, CT colonography, annual fecal occult blood testing, and fecal DNA testing are available. And in August 2014, the FDA approved Cologuard, a new colorectal cancer-screening test. Cologuard is a stool test that looks for blood and abnormal DNA. Yes, that’s right. Your stool actually contains DNA, and the abnormal DNA of advanced adenomas and colorectal cancer can be detected.
Well, the rest is up to you. Pick up the phone this month and make an appointment for your colorectal cancer screening. Don’t be the person who continues to procrastinate, and is later diagnosed with an advanced, difficult to treat cancer.
About the Author:
William M. Healy, M.D. is a physician who specializes in Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, treating people of all ages. He is located at 1829 Maple Road, Suite 202, Williamsville, NY 14221. To make an appointment with Dr. Healy call 716.204.5933. Visit his website at www.MDVIP.com/WilliamHealyMD.
